Grundy Reporter

Illinois Senate Republicans have introduced a legislative package aimed at making childcare more affordable across the state. The initiative comes in response to significant challenges parents face in accessing childcare, particularly in rural areas.

Capitol News Illinois has reported a substantial decline in childcare providers, with the state losing around 4,300 licensed providers, or about 33%, in the last ten years. The issue is compounded by the fact that nearly 60% of Illinois residents live in childcare deserts, a figure that escalates to 70% in rural regions, forcing many working families to travel long distances for childcare services.

The legislative package includes several key proposals. Senate Bill 1120, known as the Child Care Providers Working in Child Care Deserts Student Loan Forgiveness Act, aims to attract more childcare workers to underserved areas through financial incentives. It offers up to $4,000 in loan forgiveness per year for undergraduate degrees and $8,000 per year for graduate degrees, applicable for up to two years. The bill also proposes extending daycare license renewals from three to four years, mandating free online training for childcare providers by July 1, 2026, and raising income eligibility for childcare assistance to 250% of the federal poverty level beginning in fiscal year 2026.

Another component, Senate Bill 1121, seeks to modernize licensing rules in childcare deserts. This bill would enable the state to minimize bureaucratic hurdles, streamline approval processes, and adjust licensing requirements according to local needs and workforce conditions.

Additionally, Senate Bill 2382 introduces an income tax credit equal to the fair market value of donated real property for onsite childcare facilities, whereas Senate Bill 2277 is designed to increase the income tax credit for businesses that offer childcare services to their employees.

The Illinois Senate Republican Caucus remains committed to advancing legislation aimed at bolstering local economies and promoting solutions that benefit businesses and families.