Excerpts from week.com:
Two Illinois lawmakers are sponsoring legislation to help volunteer firefighters and EMT’s with a $500 tax credit.
Firefighters have other jobs, but they are prepared to report for duty at any time. Senate Bill 3224 would create a $500 dollar tax credit that qualifying volunteer firefighters and EMT’s can claim when they file their Illinois income taxes. Because it is a credit and not a deduction, it would provide a direct reduction in the amount of taxes owed, or potentially even increase their tax refund.
The lawmakers filed their bill to help volunteer firefighters and EMT’s pay for expenses that often includes things such as medical and fire equipment, training, licensure, and even insurance. They also hope that by reducing the financial burden of volunteering, the legislation can help local fire departments to recruit new volunteers to bolster their efforts at protecting the public.
