McLean County Times

Illinois families and educators are being reminded of tax credits available to help with the costs of the new school year. The K-12 Education Expense Credit allows parents and guardians to claim up to $750 per household for certain educational expenses, such as tuition, book rentals, and lab fees paid directly to a school. Home-school families may also qualify if their expenses are tied to an approved curriculum. Last year, nearly 200,000 families used this credit, saving an average of $324.

Educators in Illinois can benefit from the Instructional Materials and Supplies Credit. Full-time K-12 teachers, aides, counselors, and principals who work at least 900 hours during the school year can claim up to $500 in credits for out-of-pocket classroom expenses. Married couples who are both educators and file jointly may receive up to $1,000. In 2024, more than 81,000 educators claimed this credit, collectively saving over $35 million.

"I think these tax credits are a practical way to help ease the financial burden of a new school year and encourage families and teachers to keep their receipts and file for the relief they deserve," said Illinois State Sen. Chris Balkema (R-Pontiac).

Further information is available at tax.illinois.gov and in IDOR Publication 112.

Ameren Illinois has launched a new program aimed at helping income-qualified households manage higher electricity bills during the summer months. The initiative sets aside $4 million for one-time grants of $150 toward electricity bills for eligible customers. This program is separate from LIHEAP but will be distributed through local LIHEAP agencies. Those interested can find their local agency at HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or by calling 833-711-0374.

LIHEAP will reopen for applications on October 1 and offers direct bill support along with other benefits such as waived deposits and late fees. Ameren continues to promote energy efficiency programs that include in-home assessments and upgrades like insulation or improved heating systems; more details are available at AmerenIllinois.com/PathtoSavings.

"In response to these rising energy costs, I am co-sponsoring legislation to help stabilize our grid and protect people from further cost spikes," said Balkema. "These bills are about taking real, practical steps to fix a system that’s been badly mishandled."

Balkema outlined three bills he is working on:

- Senate Bill 1234: Establishes a task force to examine how state energy policies affect affordability and reliability.

- Senate Bill 1235: Lifts restrictions on fossil fuel plants and allows construction of new peaker plants.

- Senate Bill 1236: Aims to reduce permitting delays for critical energy projects such as the Lincoln Land Energy Center.

"Illinois families deserve affordable, reliable energy. That starts with baseload power — not one-sided mandates and unrealistic promises," Balkema stated.

Senator Balkema is also seeking applicants for a Legislative Assistant position in his office. Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and resume to Mary Lou Frank at mfrank@sgop.ilga.gov.

Balkema was elected as a Republican in 2025 to represent Illinois' 53rd Senate District, succeeding Thomas M. Bennett.