Speaking at a press conference calling for a tax credit to support volunteer firefighters, State Representative Wayne Rosenthal (R-Morrisonville) thanked the volunteer first responders who quickly jumped into action to save lives during the unprecedented dust storm that struck I-55 on May 1, 2023.
“Without volunteer first responders, many of our rural communities throughout central Illinois would be at risk,” said Rosenthal. “Were it not for our dedicated volunteers, the tragedy on I-55 last week could have been even worse. An income tax credit to help incentivize and provide a little support to volunteers who willingly put their lives at risk to protect their neighbors is the least we can do to recognize their commitment and say thank you.”
The legislation the bipartisan group of lawmakers are proposing, Senate Bill 2253, would create a $500 income tax credit for each individual who serves as a volunteer emergency worker for at least nine months during the taxable year and does not receive compensation for his or her services.