Governor JB Pritzker has until January 1, 2027, to decide whether Illinois will participate in a new federal scholarship tax credit program designed to support educational opportunities for students. Under the program, taxpayers who donate to qualifying scholarship-granting organizations can receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit of up to $1,700. If Illinois opts into the program, scholarship funds could be used for educational expenses such as tutoring, specialized instruction, educational therapies, or tuition assistance.
Supporters of the proposal say the program could provide additional educational resources for students attending public, private, or home schools. They also note that taxpayers would receive the federal tax credit regardless of whether Illinois participates, but Illinois students would only benefit if the state chooses to opt in.
The issue received support in several Illinois communities through non-binding advisory questions on local ballots earlier this year. Lawmakers have also introduced competing legislation, with some seeking to enroll Illinois in the program and others proposing measures that would prevent participation. Recent state assessment results showed just over half of Illinois students were reading at grade level in spring 2025, while 39 percent were proficient in math.
Supporters point to endorsements from officials in other states, including New York Governor Kathy Hochul and Colorado Governor Jared Polis, who have expressed support for participation. Advocates also note the program could help families access services for students with disabilities. Illinois educates nearly 375,000 students with disabilities in public schools, according to figures from the 2024-25 school year.
The governor has not yet announced whether Illinois will participate in the federal program.