Metro East Sun

Illinois House Republicans have introduced a legislative package aimed at providing financial relief to working families in the state. The package, called "Relief for Working Families," includes proposals to encourage entrepreneurship, support tipped employees, and offer opportunities for technical skill-building.

Rep. Brad Stephens stated, "Our Relief for Working Families bill package was crafted in order to reduce the financial burdens placed on middle-class Illinoisans who have had to put up with years of economic uncertainty, incessant tax increases, and overspending." He added that the bills aim to reshape Illinois into a destination for families, students, small businesses, and professionals.

One key proposal is Rep. Kyle Moore’s Reducing Barriers to Start Act (HB 1351), which seeks to eliminate startup fees for new businesses in their first year. This measure is intended to help small businesses create jobs more quickly.

Education also plays a significant role in the legislative package. Rep. Mike Coffey's Reinvest in Future Technical Careers Act (HB 1729) offers tax credits for contributions to scholarship funds for students attending technical academies. Coffey explained that this initiative addresses the shortage of qualified trade workers in Illinois: “This bill would help fill the gaps between the state-mandated labor requirements and workforce availability.”

Additional educational assistance proposals include HB 1752 by Rep. Brad Stephens, offering income tax deductions for employers providing educational assistance; HB 3807 by Rep. Kevin Schmidt, establishing the Illinois Trades Retention and Development Encouragement (ITRADE) grant program; and HB 3821 by House Deputy Republican Leader Ryan Spain, which doubles the education expense income tax credit from $750 to $1500 annually.

The shortage of trained workforce has been a concern among manufacturing companies in Illinois. To address this issue, Rep. Jed Davis introduced HB 1112, allowing skilled trade workers without bachelor’s degrees to become educators.

Finally, Deputy Leader Spain sponsors HB 1383, creating an income tax deduction on gratuities included in federal tax returns of tipped workers.

Rep. Moore emphasized the intent behind these measures: “This package is called Relief for Working Families because that’s what it will provide.” The legislation aims to offer breaks through education advancement opportunities and financial savings.

House Republicans are set to advocate for these bills during the legislative session as they prioritize improving financial wellbeing for working families across Illinois.