For Immediate Release – October 24, 2023

IL Freedom Caucus: Latest Invest in Kids Act proposal would limit program’s effectiveness

Springfield, IL – The IL Freedom Caucus today is issuing the following statement on the proposed Invest in Kids Act changes, which would keep the program going another five years but would reduce the maximum tax credit dollar amount from $1 million to $500,000 and would reduce the total overall scholarship opportunity amount from $75 million to $50 million.

“This proposal is a non-starter. It will not make the program permanent, and it reduces the available funding for scholarships. The best course of action would be to extend the program and to expand it. This school year alone, the scholarship program has helped 9,500 kids escape failing schools. There are 26,000 applicants in need of scholarship help. But instead of helping kids, it appears the Legislature is dead set on making it harder for this program to help kids in need.

The scholarship money for the Invest in Kids Act comes from private donations and amounts to just 0.9 percent of the budget for public schools. It does not use existing tax dollars or take away any funding from public schools. Illinois Education Association opposition to the Invest in Kids Act is a disgrace. We call on our colleagues to do right by our students, expand this program and make it permanent.”

The Illinois Freedom Caucus is comprised of State Representatives Chris Miller (R-Hindsboro), chairman; Blaine Wilhour (R-Beecher City), vice-chairman; Adam Niemerg (R-Dieterich); Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville); Dan Caulkins (R-Decatur); Jed Davis (R-Newark) and David Friess (R-Red Bud). The members of the Illinois Freedom Caucus are members of the Illinois General Assembly who are advocating for limited government, lower taxes and accountability, and integrity in government.