SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The One Big Beautiful Bill may bring back a state program that previously expired.
The Invest in Kids Act let donors count donations to private school scholarships as a tax credit.
That was in effect from 2018 to 2023. Lawmakers proposed bills to extend the program, but nothing passed.
States now have the opportunity to join a federal initiative called the Educational Choice for Children Act. This allows individuals to donate up to $1700 to a scholarship organization, which can then be deducted from their taxes.
State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) expressed that this is the most effective way to ensure students from low-income families receive the highest quality education possible. He is promoting a resolution urging Governor J.B. Pritzker to take part.
“The funding should accompany the student, rather than the system or the bureaucracy,” stated Halbrook. “This initiative provides a wonderful chance for students in underperforming schools to have the opportunity to succeed.”
Halbrook said 35 other states have already opted into the program.
Rep. Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro) also said the state should support school choice for the next generation of students.
“These kids are our future, and they deserve to receive quality education through a school that embraces their specific style of learning so they can succeed,” Miller said. “My colleagues and I strongly urge Governor Pritzker to give his full support to the Educational Choice for Children Act so students can thrive in an educational environment that is best suited for their needs.”
The program would start in 2027.
