Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon announced education reforms on Tuesday that aim to make college more affordable and increase graduation rates.

The plan will include dual degree programs that will enable students to enroll simultaneously in community colleges and universities. The reform will also include reverse transfer programs that will enable community college transfer students to earn credits toward an associate degree when their university classes overlap with community college requirements.

Simon also suggested her plan to offer tax waivers for students who earn bachelor’s or advanced degrees and choose to live and work in Illinois post-graduation.

“We need to make sure that our high school students are ready for college and complete certificates and degrees on time and with less debt,” Simon said in a press release. “The return on educational investment is proven for graduates seeking living-wage jobs and a state seeking high-quality employers. College is worth it.”

This fall, Simon will host the “Scaling Up” conference, during which, community colleges and state universities will commit to putting these practices in place on their campuses. Expert assistance also will be provided from national organizations and implementation scholars.