State Representative Amy Grant said on May 15 that Governor Pritzker should prioritize students and enroll Illinois in the federal Education Freedom Tax Credit program.
The proposed program would allow taxpayers to receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for donations made to nonprofit Scholarship Granting Organizations. These organizations would use the funds to provide private scholarships for K-12 tuition, tutoring, therapies, and supplies. According to supporters, this approach would not require additional state funding.
Grant said that giving families more options in their children’s education is important. “Having a choice in where your student gets educated should be a fundamental right” said Rep. Halbrook. “This program wouldn’t cost the state additional money and likely be as successful as the retired State of Illinois scholarship ‘Invest in Kids’.”
Supporters argue that this initiative offers families more resources without increasing costs for the state budget. They believe it could replicate or improve upon previous scholarship programs.
Grant was elected as a Republican member of the Illinois State House in 2023 and represents the state’s 47th House District after replacing Deanne Mazzochi, according to Ballotpedia.
“Illinois families deserve every opportunity for educational choice. It’s time to deliver real support for our kids,” she said.
