Gov. Pat Quinn wants to invest $50 million in the state's scholarship program.

Quinn said Sunday that the lack of finances shouldn't detour any student from attending college.

The state's Monetary Assistance Program gives grants to Illinois residents attending in-state colleges and universities.

The program currently helps 150,000 students pay for college. Quinn aims to help thousands more on the waiting list.

The Democrat called for legislators to make investments in financial aid and early childhood education days before he presents his fourth, and perhaps most anticipated, budget proposal. The budget is expected to include a spate of proposed cuts and closures.

The governor says he will close facilities and make cuts in other areas to cover the costs of the educational investments.