Illinois

Existing Programs:

Tax credits for educational expenses — 1999
Gives a tax credit to parents of children in public or private school to help cover expenses, including tuition.

Legislature Status:

In session.

Pending Legislation:

SB 1248
“School Choice Act”
Gives vouchers to children in overcrowded or low-performing schools in Chicago for them to attend private school. The bill was introduced on Jan. 31, 2013 by Sen. Matt Murphy, R-Palatine, and was re-referred to the Assignments Committee. The bill is dated: It mandates that a voucher program be launched in June.

SB 1777
“Opportunity Scholarship Act”
Gives vouchers to children in overcrowded or low-performing schools. The bill was introduced on Feb. 15, 2013 by Sen. Michael Connelly, R-Springfield, and was re-referred to the Assignments Committee.

Breakdown:

House Bill 310, which was voted down by the state House of Representatives in April,  is the only private school choice bill that has been put up to a vote, and was resoundingly defeated 92-13. The bill would have created a scratch-off lottery game, the proceeds of which would have been used to provide private-school scholarships — essentially vouchers in all but but name. It marks the second time Rep. Lashawn Ford has introduced such legislation; he says he will try again next year.

Get more information on the ALEC education bill introduced in Illinois during in 2013, the Alternative Certification Act (HB 513, HB 1868).

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