Will Governor Pritzker Opt-In?
A new federal program could significantly expand educational opportunities for families across the nation—including here in Illinois. The initiative would benefit students in both public and nonpublic schools through expanded educational services and tuition assistance opportunities. Whether Illinois families can access these opportunities depends on one key question: Will Governor J.B. Pritzker opt Illinois into the program?
What Is the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit (FSTC)?
This is a new federal initiative designed to help families access educational options that best meet their children’s needs of public and non-public students.
Under the program, taxpayers can receive a 100% federal tax credit of up to $1,700 for contributions made to approved nonprofit Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs). These organizations use donated funds to provide scholarships or other educational funding to eligible students.
Any taxpayer with a federal income tax liability can participate, redirecting up to $1,700 to a Scholarship Granting Organization instead of paying that amount to the IRS. Unlike many government-funded programs, this initiative is supported through private contributions rather than direct government spending.
This educational funding could be used for a variety of educational needs of public and nonpublic school students, including:
• School tuition
• Tutoring services
• Special education programs and services
• Educational technology
• Academic supplies and other learning supports
If adopted by participating states, the program has the potential to benefit millions of students nationwide.
Who Is Eligible?
Families earning up to 300% of the regional median income may qualify for scholarship assistance.
In many communities, that threshold could make more than 90% of K–12 students eligible for support.
Why This Matters for Illinois
If Illinois chooses to participate, the program could generate millions of dollars in privately funded educational services for students across the state.
If Illinois does NOT opt in:
Taxpayers could still make donations and receive the federal tax credit. However, those donations would have to be directed to scholarship organizations in other participating states, resulting in millions of dollars leaving Illinois and not supporting our students.
The decision ultimately rests with Governor J.B. Pritzker.
When Does the Program Begin?
Donations to SGOs will begin on January 1, 2027.
What’s at Stake?
The opportunity to unlock millions of dollars in privately funded educational services that can go to public and nonpublic students. Hundreds of thousands of students could receive tutoring that is not being provided because parents and school districts cannot afford it. In addition, computers, transportation and other education needs could be funded in financially strapped districts. For private school students this law could generate scholarships for parents that cannot afford tuition. This program is a win for all Illinois school children. The question now is simple: Will Governor Pritzker opt Illinois into the program and allow Illinois families to benefit from these new educational opportunities or will Illinois taxpayers send their contributions to other states – the same states that are trying to lure Illinois business and our football team to their state?