Comptroller, state lawmaker call for federal tax credit scholarships
[March 23, 2026]
By Catrina Barker | The Center Square contributor
(The Center Square) – As Illinois edges toward a decision with
significant implications for families and students, State Rep. Regan
Deerin, R-Decatur, is urging the state to affirmatively opt into the new
Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program, warning that failure to do so
could mean Illinoisans lose out on education help right here at home.
Deering emphasized a key point – the federal tax credit is available to
all U.S. taxpayers, but Illinois must opt in for its students to
benefit. If the state doesn’t act, Illinois donors could still get the
credit, but the scholarships would go to students in other states.
“I’m thrilled to see Comptroller [Susana] Mendoza become part of this
bipartisan coalition that’s supporting the federal tax credit
scholarship,” Deering said in a recent recording. “As she pointed out,
it’s a no-brainer. These funds can flow directly to our families here in
Illinois,” Deering told The Center Square.
Mendoza told the Chicago Tribune Illinois shouldn’t miss out on federal
scholarship tax credits.
Deering emphasized that Illinois families already shoulder some of the
nation’s highest property taxes, much of which goes toward funding
education.
“If we have an opportunity to expand educational opportunities without
increasing taxes, that’s going to deserve some serious consideration,”
she said.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has until Jan. 1 to signal Illinois’ participation in
the federal program.
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Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza attends an event. Photo: Greg
Bishop / The Center Square
Deering called on the governor to act quickly.
“I am also going to lend my voice to strongly encourage the governor
to opt Illinois into the program,” she said.
The federal program lets taxpayers get a tax credit of up to $1,700
for donations to scholarship groups, which provide funds for
tutoring, books, exams, classes, and therapies for eligible students
in public, private or homeschool settings.
Deering echoed Mendoza's support.
“We know parents know best what’s for their children, and they
should have the freedom to choose an educational path that works for
their family,” she said, emphasizing that the credits could help
families pay for academic support and opportunities beyond their
base school curricula. “These funds can flow directly to our
families here in Illinois.” |
