SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) supported legislation that will increase the tax credit to teachers and other school staff who purchase classroom materials at public or private Illinois schools to $300.

“Educators deserve a break on the costs of classroom supplies” said Joyce. “This legislation will address the long-held practice of educators purchasing classroom supplies out of their own pocket.”

Senate Bill 1143 allows for a tax credit in the amount paid by the educator or other school staff like teacher aids or school counselors for classroom materials up to $300 beginning in taxable year 2023. In current law, the maximum credit allowed is $250.

“Educators always want what is best for the kids, allowing for an additional write off just makes sense,” Joyce said. “Educators invest in our children’s future, so we should invest in educators.”

At the highest reported amount in record, teachers spent an average of $750 on school supplies out of pocket during the 2020-2021 school year. Approximately 30% of teachers spent $1,000 or more on school supplies. Purchases often include professional development books, office supplies, tissues, art supplies, snacks for students who might not have enough food at home and clothing.

SB 1143 was approved by the Senate Thursday and will now head to the House for further consideration.

SOUTH CHICAGO HEIGHTS – Ahead of next Saturday’s Coffee, Conversation and Constituent Services event, State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is reminding residents to take the opportunity to share ideas and concerns with their representatives in Springfield.

“Giving residents the opportunity to come to the table and provide input on what’s happening in our community or in Springfield is vital, and that’s why my office continues to host events like this,” Joyce said. “I look forward to talking with everyone over a cup of coffee and hearing about the issues that are important to them.”

The event will be held 8:30-9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 5 at HiWay Bakery located at 2633 Chicago Rd., South Chicago Heights.

Senator Joyce aims to increase government accountability and accessibility by hosting this traveling event at different times, locations and dates in hopes of reaching working families across Will, Cook, Kankakee and Grundy Counties.

This event is free and open to area residents.Those with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact Joyce’s office at 708-756-0882 or visit his website at SenatorPatrickJoyce.com.

Grain Bin Safety Week is February 20-26

KANKAKEE – To prevent fatalities on the farm during the busy harvest season, Senate Agriculture Committee chair Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is joining officials in reminding farmers and farm workers to be cautious when working in and around grain bins.

“There is a responsibility that comes with living in a rural area, we have to continue to take care of friends and neighbors” Joyce said. “With delayed emergency response times, it is crucial to review all safety precautions.”

While essential to Illinois’ harvests, grain handling equipment and storage containers can quickly become dangerous. In 2020, Illinois Fire Departments responded to a nation leading 12 rescue incidents at Illinois grain bins and elevators.

“Often times we become complacent when doing tasks we have done a thousand times and for farmers that often means working in and around grain bins,” said IDOA Director, Jerry Costello II.  “Unfortunately, problems involving flowing grain can snowball quickly. That’s why it’s important to set aside time to go over safety measures, to prepare farmers for a potential grain bin emergency.”

To learn safety tips and find additional information to stay safe during harvest, click here. 

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation to expedite the issuance of professional licenses, championed by State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex), passed the Illinois Senate on Wednesday.

“This measure cuts red tape for new professionals entering the workforce,” Joyce said. “Advocating for hard-working Illinoisans is my top priority and this legislation does just that.”

The legislation was introduced after hearing word from local residents that the professional licensing process was taking too long. Under the legislation, IDFPR will be required to process applications within four weeks as long as there were no deficiencies submitted. The measure would expedite licenses for health care workers, accountants, speech pathologists and other professionals.

“New professionals are waiting months to receive a license that they are qualified for and need to enter the workforce,” Joyce said. “While I appreciate the department’s efforts to reduce processing times with electronic renewals, I believe this legislation will help speed up the process.”

Senate Bill 670 moves to the House for further consideration.