Illinois House Bill HB3430

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/17/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/17/23
• Refer: 3/10/23

Caption

INVEST IN KIDS-SUNSET

Impact

The impacts of HB3430 are twofold: it not only solidifies financial assistance options for students seeking educational opportunities outside public schools but also potentially increases participation in the scholarship program among taxpayers. By making the tax credit permanent, the bill aims to ensure a steady flow of funding into the education system, allowing students from lower-income families better access to quality education through scholarships. Additionally, it may encourage more individuals and businesses to contribute to scholarship granting organizations, knowing that they can receive tax credits for their contributions indefinitely.

Summary

House Bill 3430 amends the Illinois Income Tax Act and the Invest in Kids Act with the primary aim of making the Invest in Kids tax credit a permanent fixture in state law. The bill proposes to extend the applicability of the tax credit indefinitely, whereas under the previous provisions, it was set to expire for taxable years ending before January 1, 2023. The intention behind this change is to provide ongoing financial support to families and scholarship granting organizations, thereby facilitating the funding of educational opportunities for students through scholarships.

Contention

Despite the overall positive implications of the bill, there are points of contention regarding its long-term sustainability and the allocation of resources. Critics may argue that while the intent is to improve educational funding, there are concerns about the potential for unequal distribution of scholarships. The prioritization of scholarships for specific income thresholds and focus districts could lead to discussions on access and equity, raising questions about whether all students, especially those in marginalized communities, will benefit equally from the extended tax credit. Furthermore, issues surrounding the accountability of scholarship granting organizations and how funds are managed may arise as a focal point in legislative discussions.