Helping Families Build a Secure Financial Future

Mike believes every Illinois family deserves the opportunity to build financial security, whether that means saving for college, pursuing career training, preparing for retirement, or putting money aside for life's unexpected expenses.

As Treasurer, Mike overhauled Bright Start, Illinois' college savings program, lowering fees, expanding investment options, and transforming it into a nationally recognized program. Today, Illinois' Bright Start and Bright Directions plans collectively help families save more than $26 billion for over 900,000 students. Through Illinois First Steps, eligible children also receive a $50 contribution to jump-start their college savings.

Mike also established the Student Empowerment Fund to expand access to lower-interest student loans and help students and families facing barriers to traditional financing.

Recognizing that millions of workers lack access to retirement plans through their employers, Mike launched Illinois Secure Choice, now known as My Illinois Savings. The program has helped more than 170,000 Illinois workers save over $339 million for retirement, with more than 25,000 employers registered across all 102 counties.

Through Illinois ABLE, Mike has also helped people with disabilities save and invest for their futures without jeopardizing eligibility for certain federal benefits.

Mike will continue expanding access to affordable education, retirement savings, and financial tools that help working families build a more secure future.