The Education Freedom Tax Credit would encourage private donations to scholarship programs by offering a federal tax credit for qualified contributions. Donors can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax credit of up to $1,700, helping generate more resources for K-12 students and giving families greater access to academic support, learning materials, and educational opportunities.
Beginning in 2027, scholarship funds can be used by students in public or private schools for educational expenses such as tutoring, additional coursework, books, online educational materials, and more.
Importantly, this program is not just about private schools. Public school students who may be struggling academically or need additional support would also benefit without having to leave their local school district. Families would gain greater flexibility to help their children succeed in the learning environment that works best for them.
Even Colorado Democrat Governor Jared Polis acknowledged the value of the program, saying his state “would be crazy” not to participate.
As more states move forward, Illinois risks falling behind by refusing to give students and families access to resources already being made available across the country. Governor Pritzker should put students over politics and ensure Illinois families have every possible tool to help their children succeed in the classroom and beyond.