Dupage Policy Journal

Hardworking families across the state are grappling with increasing costs, from groceries to energy prices and taxes. In response, the Illinois House Republicans have introduced a legislative package aimed at providing relief.

The "Relief for Working Families Legislative Package" includes several measures designed to ease financial burdens. One of these is HB1351, known as the Reducing Barriers to Start Act, which proposes eliminating all first-year business fees related to licenses or registration.

Another measure, HB3807, seeks to establish the Illinois Trades Retention and Development Encouragement (ITRADE) Grant Program. This program aims to support high school graduates pursuing degrees or certificates in trades.

HB1752 introduces an income tax deduction for employers offering educational assistance programs to their employees. Additionally, HB3821 proposes raising the maximum education expense tax credit from $750 to $1,500.

To further alleviate financial strain, HB3812 suggests waiving state professional licensing renewal fees for individuals earning less than $50,000 annually. Lastly, HB1383 and HB1898 aim to remove taxes on tips by creating an income tax deduction for gratuities.

These legislative efforts are positioned as necessary steps toward providing tangible relief for families amid rising living costs.