Bill Summary: SB1591 (Public Act 101-0207)

• Amends the Illinois Income Tax Act by adding Section 229, establishing a new apprenticeship education expense credit for employers of qualifying apprentices for taxable years beginning January 1, 2020 through January 1, 2025.

• Allows employers a tax credit equal to 100% of qualified education expenses (tuition, book fees, lab fees) not to exceed $3,500 per apprentice per year, plus an additional $1,500 credit if the apprentice or employer is located in an underserved area.

• Defines qualifying apprentices as Illinois residents at least 16 years old enrolled full-time in apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Apprenticeship.

• Caps total annual tax credits statewide at $5,000,000, awarded on a first-come, first-served basis; credits are non-transferable and cannot reduce tax liability below zero.

• Requires the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to certify applicants, issue tax credit certificates, and report annually to the Governor and General Assembly on credits awarded, including employer information and apprentice statistics.