Pass tax credits for caregivers

More than 1.5 million adults in Illinois take care of their aging loved ones, and I'm one of them. At 54, I am the full-time caretaker of my 76-year old mother. This is a job I, and many others do, unpaid. I'm part of the growing segment of people some call the "Sandwich Generation," who have both children to support and aging parents to take care of. Before COVID-19, I was able to continue working part-time and take care of my mother with the help of outside caregivers. When the pandemic hit, I chose to retire to take care of her full time. The emotional and financial toll has been all-consuming for many families. My story is not unique in Illinois.

We need to do something to support the millions of caregivers who are suffering during the pandemic. Luckily, there is one solution being discussed in the state legislature this year: I ask you to join me in supporting HB2792/SB2184, which will allow caregivers like me to receive the state's Earned Income Credit.

Currently, caregivers, people without Social Security numbers, childless young adults 18-24 and adults 65 and older without dependents are not eligible to benefit from what Ronald Reagan called "the best anti-poverty, the best pro-family, the best job creation measure to come out of Congress." Last year, the U.S. saw the sharpest rise in poverty in 50 years. But even before this, we know too many families are struggling to balance budgets and dealing with economic uncertainty.

We need to pass this Earned Income Credit expansion this year. Not only will Illinois set an innovative policy example for other cities and states, but studies show that every dollar invested in programs like these gives back $1.50 to the local economy, something our small business owners need right now.

Jennifer Agne

Downers Grove