Comptroller, state lawmaker call for federal tax credit scholarships

By Catrina Barker | The Center Square contributor
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – As Illinois edges toward a decision with significant implications for families and students, State Rep. Regan Deerin, R-Decatur, is urging the state to affirmatively opt into the new Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program, warning that failure to do so could mean Illinoisans lose out on education help right here at home.

Deering emphasized a key point – the federal tax credit is available to all U.S. taxpayers, but Illinois must opt in for its students to benefit. If the state doesn’t act, Illinois donors could still get the credit, but the scholarships would go to students in other states.

“I’m thrilled to see Comptroller [Susana] Mendoza become part of this bipartisan coalition that’s supporting the federal tax credit scholarship,” Deering said in a recent recording. “As she pointed out, it’s a no-brainer. These funds can flow directly to our families here in Illinois,” Deering told The Center Square.

Mendoza told the Chicago Tribune Illinois shouldn’t miss out on federal scholarship tax credits.

Deering emphasized that Illinois families already shoulder some of the nation’s highest property taxes, much of which goes toward funding education.

“If we have an opportunity to expand educational opportunities without increasing taxes, that’s going to deserve some serious consideration,” she said.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has until Jan. 1 to signal Illinois’ participation in the federal program.

Deering called on the governor to act quickly.

“I am also going to lend my voice to strongly encourage the governor to opt Illinois into the program,” she said.

The federal program lets taxpayers get a tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations to scholarship groups, which provide funds for tutoring, books, exams, classes, and therapies for eligible students in public, private or homeschool settings.

Deering echoed Mendoza’s support.

“We know parents know best what’s for their children, and they should have the freedom to choose an educational path that works for their family,” she said, emphasizing that the credits could help families pay for academic support and opportunities beyond their base school curricula. “These funds can flow directly to our families here in Illinois.”