CHICAGO (AP) — Governor Pat Quinn has signed legislation requiring up to $30 million worth of solar power to be pumped into the energy mix for Illinois electricity customers.

The measure was sponsored by Democratic state Representative Robyn Gabel of Evanston and state Senator Don Harmon, an Oak Park Democrat.

It requires the Illinois Power Agency to purchase solar power to meet a portion of the state’s electric power needs. It also establishes a competitive process to purchase energy from existing solar devices and new solar installations.

It allows residents with rooftop solar panels to sell excess electricity back to the grid.

Quinn says the legislation provides for cleaner, cheaper energy. The Department of Energy has estimated the provision could create thousands of jobs.

The law takes effect immediately.

Gov. Pat Quinn has also signed legislation making it easier for military families moving to Illinois to enroll their children in schools in the state.

The law was signed Saturday by the Chicago Democrat in west central Mascoutah.

Sponsored by Democratic state Rep. Eddie Lee Jackson and state Sen. Melinda Bush, the legislation streamlines the health and academic record transfer process for out-of-state elementary and high school students with one or more parents serving in the military.

Advocates say the change eliminates unnecessary delays preventing children from being in school.

Quinn says the state has a responsibility to make sure military families’ moves to Illinois are worry-free.

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