Legislative Victories
Invest in Kids Act - Public Act 100-0465
Creates the Invest in Kids Act. Provides that the Department of Revenue shall award income tax credits to taxpayers who make authorized contributions to scholarship granting organizations. Sets forth limitations with respect to the aggregate amount of credits awarded by the Department in a calendar year and the amount of credits awarded to an individual taxpayer. Amends the Illinois Income Tax Act to make conforming changes. Effective immediately.
Accelerated Placement Act - Public Act 100-0421
Amends the Gifted and Talented Children Article of the School Code. Renames the Article the Gifted and Talented Children and Children Eligible for Accelerated Placement Article. Provides that provisions concerning non-discrimination include non-discrimination for access to accelerated placement. Provides that school districts shall have a policy that allows for accelerated placement. Sets forth both required and optional components of the policy. Requires the State Board of Education to adopt rules to determine data to be collected regarding accelerated placement and a method of making the information available to the public. Defines "accelerated placement". Makes other changes. Effective July 1, 2018.
Teacher Tax Credit - Public Act 100-0022
Creates a tax credit for instructional materials and supplies. For instructional materials and supplies with respect to classroom based instruction in a qualified school, or $250, whichever is less, provided that the taxpayer is a teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide in a qualified school. Effective immediately.
Untapped Potential Act - Public Act 99-0706
Amends the Gifted and Talented Children Article of the School Code. With respect to State funding of local gifted education programs, makes changes to the program requirements concerning assessments and selection processes. Effective immediately.
Course Access Act - Public Act 99-0442
Requires the State Superintendent of Education to establish a review committee to review virtual education and course choice. Sets forth provisions concerning committee members, meetings, duties, and support. Requires the committee to report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly no later than May 31, 2016