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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2023 - 2024
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 5, 2022 01:53 PM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Ed Neilson |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Tax Credits for Classroom Supplies |
| In 2022, teachers reported spending, on average, $829 of their own money on items for their students and classrooms, nationwide. This is a new record high on a figure that has seen steady rises in recent years. Not only does this injustice place more pressure on these hardworking professionals, it also perpetuates the inequality between poor and wealthy school districts. While the IRS recently raised its allowable deductions for teachers to $300 for federal income taxes, this is clearly not commensurate with the spending increased teachers are confronting. It is time for Pennsylvania to do its part in supporting our teachers. That is why I am re-introducing legislation to provide a tax credit for teachers who have incurred personal expenses due to the purchasing of classroom supplies such as books, computers, software, and other needed materials. Each teacher who purchases covered items would be eligible for up to $500 in Pennsylvania tax credits, with up to $15 million in tax credits to be awarded annually. With the challenging budgetary landscape teachers have faced in recent years, they continue to work hard to ensure every student has the tools they need to succeed. Therefore, it is only fair that we reimburse those teachers for their out-of-pocket expenses. Please join me in supporting Pennsylvania teachers, as well as ensuring classrooms are optimally equipped for student achievement. Your consideration and co-sponsorship are appreciated |
Introduced as HB528