Offers Tax Credits to Small Grocers and Pharmacies
Illinois · HB5828 · Introduced Oct 27, 2026
Why it matters
Stores in underserved areas could get tax breaks to hire workers and stay open. Shoppers in food and pharmacy deserts could gain closer access to groceries and medicine.
What it does
- Offers tax credits to independent pharmacies and grocery stores that open or expand in Illinois
- Credit can cover up to 100% of new worker payroll tax in food or pharmacy deserts
- Businesses must be independently owned, with no more than 4 locations and 500 employees
- Lets businesses claim the credit starting January 1, 2028, against income or withholding tax
- Lets local governments that run grocery stores get equipment grants, including SNAP and WIC payment systems
Introduced
Next: committee review
- Introduceddone
- Committeecurrent step
- Housenot yet
- Senatenot yet
- Governornot yet
About this bill
Would create tax credits for independent pharmacies and grocery stores that open or expand in Illinois. Credits are capped by a share of new worker payroll tax and start in 2028.
EDGE-PHARMACIES/GROCERIES
Perspectives
💬 The case for
Community groups would likely say the credits help keep groceries and medicine close to low-income neighborhoods. Small business groups may say the limits keep help focused on independent owners.
💬 The case against
Some tax groups would likely say the credits cost the state revenue without proof they work. Chain store owners may say the limits leave them out.
Sponsored by
Sponsor details for this state bill are at the source link.
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