The Center for Tax and
Budget Accountability
www.ctbaonline.org
312.332.2151 (phone)
312.578.9258 (fax)
70 E. Lake St.,
Suite 1700
Chicago, IL 60601
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The Center for Tax andBudget Accountability
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www.ctbaonline.org |
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March 27,
2007
WEEKLY REVIEW |
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In this
issue:
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COMPREHENSIVE FISCAL REFORM HB/SB 750 update
TRANSPORTATION Have your say today - shape transit decisions in your area
SPECIAL EDUCATION FUNDING IN ILLINOIS: PASSING THE BUCK Special education funding badly in need of reform
REPORT: STATE INCOME TAXES AND LOW INCOME FAMILIES New report discusses the tax burden on low-income earners
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION Federal budget, immigrant rights, education, children's rights CALENDAR OF EVENTS
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COMPREHENSIVE FISCAL REFORM |
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HB/SB 750 UPDATE
Last Tuesday, March 20, the Education and Fiscal Responsibility Act (HB/SB 750), was heard in the Elementary and Secondary Education-Appropriations Committee in the House. While there was speculation that a vote might take place, a vote was not taken and the Committee only heard testimony on the legislation. Representative David Miller, the sponsor of the bill in the House, requested that the Committee hear and vote upon the bill at a later date. Currently, the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability is working with House members and leaders to secure the votes necessary to pass the bill out of Committee so that it can be heard on the full House floor. The time frame around which this will take place is not yet known; however, stay tuned to the Weekly Review for updates on HB/SB 750 and opportunities to contact your Representatives to support HB 750.
Click here to watch the HB 750 hearing on the Illinois Channel Network.
Save the Date - May 2, 2007! A+ Illinois Supporters to March in Springfield
On Wednesday, May 2, join A+
Illinois, the Illinois Education Association and other advocates tell state
leaders, “The TIME is NOW!” Thousands of education supporters will
rally at the Illinois State Capitol to demand school funding reform in 2007.
Resources
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TRANSPORTATION |
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HAVE YOUR SAY TODAY - SHAPE TRANSIT DECISIONS IN YOUR AREA
Right now in the Northeast Region, you have the opportunity to shape transportation planning by participating in workshops that focus on the transit dependent (low income populations, seniors and individuals with disabilities). Workshops are scheduled for the following Counties: Cook, Lake, McHenry, Kane, DuPage and Will. These workshops are structured to garner feedback from organizations that represent these populations, and a later session is also included in each area to solicit feedback directly from users.
There are two things for you to do: We recommend that nonprofits attend the stakeholder session in your County, and second, notify your clients of the opportunity to attend the open house. See the full schedule.
The Regional Transportation Authority is hosting these meetings as a part of their project known as Connecting Communities through Coordination. For more information about this project, take a look at their website. Other regions of the state will also conduct an HSTP this year. (We will provide information on this process and dates for the public participation aspect shortly.)
Slowly, over time, there has been a growing recognition among policy makers that transit dependent populations do not have adequate transportation options to get to work and to other work related responsibilities not to mention go to the doctor or run daily errands, essentially do the things we need to do for our lives.
Finally, all states, as well as urban and rural areas must develop a plan to address gaps in transportation for these transit dependent populations. Known as the Human Service Transportation Plan, once completed, this plan will guide the use of federal transportation funding that comes to Illinois annually in a block grant (or formularized levels) for these populations and includes Job Access and Reverse Commute (Section 5316), New Freedoms (Section 5317) and the van program for senior populations (Section 5310). The plan (or HSTP) will also help to improve the coordination of all the different forms of transportation for these populations.
For more information on the HSTP process in your area, contact:
In the Northeast Region For outside the Chicago Metro Region Jay Ciavarella Erica Interrante CiavarellaJ@RTACHICAGO.ORG Erica.Interrante@illinois.gov (312) 913-3252 (312) 793-3532
For background information on transportation planning and spending sources mentioned here, see:
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Special education funding in Illinois |
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Gov. Blagojevich made a commitment to “help schools afford special education teachers.”
The truth is, the burden of funding special education is being shifted down the ladder, all the way to local government, resulting in serious inequities in public education. |
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EDUCATION FUNDING IN ILLINOIS: PASSING THE BUCK Funding for special education in public schools is to become increasingly dependent on local dollars, and with the federal budget crunch and Illinois’ glaring need for school funding reform, the long-running debate over special education is picking up momentum. Illinois makes a pledge, Bush fails to commit In his recent budget address, Gov. Blagojevich made a commitment to “help schools afford special education teachers.” Additionally, Rep. David Miller (D-29) introduced to the House HB750, the Education and Fiscal Responsibility Act, which provides over $600 million in new special education funding. Special education is serious component of quality education, and while families, teachers and some of our legislators, are aware of this shift, it seems that the federal government is reducing its responsibility to meet this growing need, substantiating the Illinois’ promise and plan for reform. In the Bush Administration’s newly proposed budget, state grants for special education are to decrease by $291 million in FY2008, to provide just 16.5% of the national average per-pupil expenditure toward meeting the excess cost of educating students with disabilities. According to a publication by the Federal Committee on Education and Labor released in February 2007, this funding level is less than half the amount promised by Congress when it enacted the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in 1975 (IDEA, amended in 2004). Further, Medicaid-based reimbursements related to special education services are to drop by $3.6 billion over the next five years. Illinois needs to accept is obligation While the 2008 federal budget proposal defers on its commitment to funding special education, Gov. Blagojevich’s promise must be taken to heart. According to law, the state of Illinois reimburses local school districts for the cost of providing legally mandated services--also known as “Mandated Categoricals”--including free lunch/breakfast programs, orphanage education, transportation and special education. In the last sixteen years, the State has only fully-funded reimbursements to local school districts on three occasions. A system of “prorating” used to divvy up limited reimbursement funds during the other thirteen years left a $66 million hole in school district funds as of 2004. The truth is, the burden of funding special education is being shifted down the ladder, all the way to local government, resulting in serious inequities in public education. Taking into account the inefficient use of property taxes to fund Illinois’ schools, schools with a greater number of special needs students in areas such as the Collar Counties or other regions where property values are lower, are struck with a double whammy when trying to provide quality education for everyone their district. Make that a triple whammy when you consider that the formula for determining the cost of Mandated Categoricals is entirely outdated. Or a quadruple whammy, because according to Census 2000 Data, Illinois has shy of 112,000 children ages 5 - 17 with disabilities, and with regional estimates on the number of children receiving special education ranging from 318,000 to 322,541, there is a blatant discrepancy in issue awareness, one that seems to coincide with government’s limited interest in fully funding special education services as mandated by IDEA. Reimbursement rates for special education personnel outdated, funding hard to find In the more finite case of reimbursing school districts for special education personnel, the current reimbursement rates for special education teachers remain at the levels established in 1985, $8,000 per certified full-time special educator and $2,800 for non-certified full-time special educators. On an inflation adjusted basis, the personnel reimbursement rate would be $18,737 for a certified educator and $6,650 per non-certified educator. The Illinois School Board of Education recommends raising the personnel reimbursement rate to $24,900 per teacher, which still would cover only half of the average special education teacher salary. Hope for progress lies in education funding reform Here, at the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability, we believe that in order to guarantee a quality education to all of Illinois’ children-- with our without disabilities-- the state must restructure the way education is funded. Through the provisions of HB/SB750, not only are special education teacher reimbursement rates greatly increased (to $19,000 from $8,000 for teachers and to $6,650 from $2,800 for aides), but the burden of funding education in general is distributed more equitably throughout income classes via reductions in property taxes coupled with $1 billion in income tax credits to low- and middle-income earners, all alongside changes in personal and corporate income tax, and sales and services taxes. In light of the declining federal support for funding human services characteristic of recent decades, the time is right for the state of Illinois to make its tax system a more efficient means of funding programs its residents have the right to receive. Background: Children with disabilities in Illinois In recent years, Illinois has seen an increase in the number of children receiving special education services. The past two decades have seen changes in education law, parental concern and improved systems of detection all contributing to a mounting culture of attention to the needs of children with disabilities. Change in Special Education Students
For more information, please contact Chrissy Mancini at cmancini@ctbaonline.org, or Ralph Martire at rmartire@ctbaonline.org. Resources on Disabilities in Illinois www.illinoislifespan.org -- The '411' of disability resources in Illinois www.designsforchange.org , www.frcd.org -- Information centers serving the Chicago area www.fmptic.org -- Educational advocacy outside of Chicago www.familysupportnetwork.org -- Policy advocacy for individuals with disabilities and their families
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Report: STATE INCOME TAXES AND LOW INCOME FAMILIES |
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“Taxing the incomes of working-poor families runs counter to the efforts of policymakers across the political spectrum to help families work their way out of poverty" - Jason Levitis, Author |
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CENTER FOR BUDGET AND POLICY PRIORITIES RELEASES A NEW REPORT A new report released by the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, "The Impact of State Income Taxes on Low Income Families in 2006" highlights the inequities in income tax policy as it differs in states across the nation. According to the report, in nearly half of the states with an income tax, a family of four owes taxes even if its income falls below $20,615, the poverty line for such a family. While some states have made improvements to reduce the income tax burden on low-income families, others have taxation policies that have remained unchanged. Since 1991, the number of states that tax poor families has declined from 24 to 19. While several states with very low tax thresholds have recently enacted changes that should save low-income families hundreds of dollars in taxes over the next three years, the report shows that progress is slow. Overall, there was virtually no change this year in the number of states levying income taxes on families with incomes below the poverty line. See the state-by-state breakdown of income taxes as it related to low-income families. According to author Jason Levitis: "Eliminating state income taxes on working families with poverty-level incomes gives a boost in take-home pay that helps offset higher child care and transportation costs that families incur as they strive to become economically self-sufficient. In other words, relieving state income taxes on poor families can make a meaningful contribution toward ‘making work pay.’” The report goes on to suggest a number of policies states can use to shield low-income tax payers from the burden of income taxes, such as increases in state Earned Income Tax Credits and other tax credits, no-tax floors, and personal exemptions and standard deductions. To read this report in full or in summary, please visit the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities.
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR ACTION |
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BUDGET, IMMIGRANT RIGHTS, EDUCATION, CHILDREN'S RIGHTS ACT NOW: Speak out on the Federal Budget Proposal From the Coalition on Human Needs: "The House is set to vote on the budget resolution tomorrow, Wednesday and we're trying to build bipartisan support for it. We think that Representatives Biggert and Johnson may be inclined to support the budget. These members, along with 11 others, signed a letter to Chairman Spratt asking for an increase in domestic discretionary programs above inflation. Chairman Spratt's budget makes the increases they called for, so we hope they'll support. The letter they sent to the Chairman is attached for your benefit. We would like to generate calls to their offices from executive directors and lead staff from organizations and service agencies in IL. The purpose of the calls would be to ask them to vote in favor of Chairman Spratt's budget resolution. Any help you could provide in this effort would be greatly appreciated. Below are tips for making the calls & basic information on the House budget plan. If you have any questions or need further information please call Maricela Donahue at 202-223-2532 ext.27 or via email." Tips for calls:
Basics on the House
budget plan:
Roadway Safety/Drivers Certificate Bill Advocates at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights are working to pass HB1100, the Roadway Safety/Drivers Certificate bill, which has been held in the house until next week, when Speaker Madigan returns. If you would like to show your support for this bill, call your legislator during the next week and urge them to support this important legislation. The Illinois House will vote on this bill sometime next week, and advocates are asking for your help to ensure passage of the bill. Call your State Representative and simply tell them, "I urge you to vote YES on HB1100." To find your State Representative, enter your zip code here. For more information, visit www.icirr.org. STRIVE: Security through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy US Representatives Luis Gutierrez (D-IL) and Jeff Flake (R-AZ) recently introduced STRIVE (Security Through Regularized Immigration and a Vibrant Economy) Act. The STRIVE Act is a bipartisan bill that aims to reform our nation’s immigration laws and regulations. To raise awareness and educate the public about this new legislation, ICIRR is offering two community forums this Saturday, March 24th:
See the press release for the STRIVE Act here, and download the entire bill here. Ensuring Success in School Act The Ensuring Success in School Act (ESSA), H.B. 1330, is expected to come before the Illinois House of Representatives for a full floor vote this week. If you would like to show support for HB1330, this is the right time. All House members are likely to vote on H.B. 1330 on either Wednesday, March 28 or Thursday, March 29. Advocates urge that you contact your representatives in order to convey to them to take action and protect the educational rights of students who face barriers to attending school and completing their education because they are parents, expectant parents, or victims of domestic or sexual violence. Encourage your representatives to vote yes on the bill, and to add their name to the growing list of bill sponsors. To contact your representatives, call the toll-free Capitol Switchboard at 1-888-801-4426, or go to www.ilga.gov for their district office information. Children’s Savings Accounts Advocates at Heartland Alliance are seeking support for SB388, a bill that will create the Children’s Savings Account Task Force and develop a plan to create a children’s savings account at birth for every child born in Illinois. Increasing the number of Illinois families saving for their children’s future will allow more children to actively pursue their dreams – attain higher education, purchase a home, or start a small business. Children’s Savings Accounts are a solid investment in Illinois’ families, children, and economy, helping create a better prepared and more competitive workforce, more jobs and innovation, and stronger communities. If you would like to show your support, contact your state senator today using the "act now" button below and encourage their support for Senate Bill 388 and Children’s Savings Accounts.
SCHIP Funding The House of Representatives is voting on funding for children's health this week. Advocates are asking that people who care about children’s healthcare let their Representative know. Illinois Maternal and Child Health Coalition would like you to tell them to:
BACKGROUND: 2. Last week the House Budget Committee PASSED a budget resolution that promises to provide $50 billion in new funding over the next 5 years for SCHIP. Help ensure continued legislative support by making sure your Representative knows the importance of supporting a budget resolution that promises $50 billion for SCHIP. For more information, visit www.ilmaternal.org. Check out a recent report published by the Center for American Progress’ Meredith L. King, The SCHIP Shortfall Crisis: Ramifications for Minority Children, (3/21/2007).
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UPCOMING EVENTS |
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CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE TODAY |
WHAT? Building Successful Mixed-Income Communities: Planning, Design and Architecture WHEN? Wednesday, March 28, 2007, 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM WHERE? Walnut Room of the Hotel Allegro, 171 West Randolph, Chicago For more information, click here.
WHAT? Moving from Poverty to Opportunity: Champaign Township Forum WHEN? Thursday, April 5, 2007, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM WHERE? City of Champaign Town Council Chambers – 102 North Neil Street, Champaign For more information, click here.
WHAT? Understanding the Public Benefits Appeal Process Training WHEN? Wednesday, April 12, 2007, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM WHERE? 1120 E. Diehl Road, Naperville
This training is part of the DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform workshop series, Making the Connection: Accessing Public Benefits for Low Income Persons. For more information, to learn about other workshops, and to register, click here.
WHAT? Understanding Spenddown Training WHEN? Wednesday, April 12, 2007, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM WHERE? 1120 E. Diehl Road, Naperville
This training is part of the DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform workshop series, Making the Connection: Accessing Public Benefits for Low Income Persons. For more information, to learn about other workshops, and to register, click here.
WHAT? Housing Action Illinois' 2007 Annual Convention (workshops, celebration, and rally) WHEN? April 17-18, 2007 WHERE? ICAA Training Facility, 3435 Liberty Drive, Springfield, IL Click here to register and view the flyer. Contact: nate@housingactionil.org or 312-939-6074 x 201 More info: www.housingactionil.org.
WHAT? Early Childhood Lobby Day WHEN? Thursday, April 19, 2007, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM WHERE? Springfield Join the Ounce of Prevention Fund and Healthy Families Illinois for an Early Childhood Lobby Day. Background materials, training, a box lunch, and transportation from Chicago to Springfield will be provided. For more information, contact Rashanda Perryman at 312-922-3863 ext. 3353.
WHAT? Moving from Poverty to Opportunity: Dewitt, Piatt, Macon, Shelby, Christian Forum WHEN? Wednesday, April 21, 2007, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM WHERE? Warner Library-Revere Room, 310 N. Quincy Avenue, Clinton, IL For information, click here.
WHAT? Financing Illinois’ Future - Building a Solid Framework WHEN? Tuesday, April 24, 2007, 11:30 AM WHERE? Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago Click here to register and for more information.
WHAT? Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing WHEN? Tuesday, April 24, 2007, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM WHERE? James R. Thompson Center , Room 9-040, 100 W. Randolph, Chicago Click here to view a flyer.
WHAT? Moving From Poverty to Opportunity: Madison County Action Forum WHEN? Saturday, April 28, 2007, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM WHERE? Location to be determined For more information, contact Doug Schenkelberg, Associate Director of Policy Mid-America Institute on Poverty of Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights, at 773.728.5960 x6284.
WHAT? What Works for Today's Families? And What Doesn't?: A Decade of Research, Practice, and Dialogue WHEN? May 4-5, 2007 WHERE? University of Chicago, International House, 1414 East 59th Street, Chicago For more information, click here.
WHAT? Financing Development: Community Housing Developers Institute WHEN? May 15-16, 2007 WHERE?
ICAA Training Facility, 3435 Liberty Drive, Springfield, IL
WHAT? Making the Connection: Basic Training WHEN? Wednesday, May 17, 2007, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM WHERE? 1120 E. Diehl Road, Naperville
This training is part of the DuPage Federation on Human Services Reform workshop series, Making the Connection: Accessing Public Benefits for Low Income Persons. For more information, to learn about other workshops, and to register, click here.
WHAT? Construction Management: Community Housing Developers Institute WHEN? June 5-6, 2007 WHERE?
Abraham Lincoln Hotel and Conference Center/President Abraham Lincoln
Museum, Springfield, IL
WHAT? Single-Family Development: Community Housing Developers Institute WHEN? September 11-12, 2007 WHERE?
ICAA Training Facility, 3435 Liberty Drive, Springfield, IL
WHAT? Property and Asset Management: Community Housing Developers Institute WHEN? October 16-17, 2007 WHERE?
ICAA Training Facility, 3435 Liberty Drive, Springfield, IL
WHAT? Affordable Housing Month WHEN? November 1-30, 2007 WHERE?
ICAA Training Facility, 3435 Liberty Drive, Springfield, IL
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