SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — The One Big Beautiful Bill may bring back a state program that previously expired.

The Invest in Kids Act let donors count donations to private school scholarships as a tax credit.
That was in effect from 2018 to 2023. Lawmakers proposed bills to extend the program, but nothing passed.

Now states can opt into a federal program called the Educational Choice for Children Act. It allows for up to a $1700 donation to a scholarship organization count for taxes.

State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) said it’s the best way to ensure low-income students get the best education they can. He’s sponsoring a resolution calling on Governor J.B. Pritzker to participate.

“The money needs to follow the student, not the system, not the bureaucracy,” Halbrook said. “And this is a great opportunity to give students that are in schools that are failing, gives them an opportunity to excel.”

Halbrook said 35 other states have already opted into the program.

Rep. Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro) also said the state should support school choice for the next generation of students.

“These kids are our future, and they deserve to receive quality education through a school that embraces their specific style of learning so they can succeed,” Miller said. “My colleagues and I strongly urge Governor Pritzker to give his full support to the Educational Choice for Children Act so students can thrive in an educational environment that is best suited for their needs.”

The program would start in 2027.