Bipartisan legislation introduced on Dec. 16 by U.S. Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) would give K-12 coaches a tax break.
If enacted, S. 3411, which Sen. Scott sponsored with original cosponsor U.S. Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH), specifically would amend the nation’s tax code to allow K-12 coaches to be classified as “eligible educators,” thereby making them eligible to receive tax deductions for out-of-pocket expenses related to instructional expenses.
“Coaches and athletic administrators are often integral to the success of students both in and out of the classroom,” Sen. Scott said. “It is only right that we expand the tax code to ensure that they receive the same benefits as they continue to personally invest in the future of students across America.”
Under current law, only eligible educators may utilize the $250 tax credit for out-of-pocket instructional-related expenses, according to information provided by Sen. Scott’s staff.
“It is nonsensical that coaches are left out of getting tax cuts to help cover out-of-pocket costs for supplies when all other teachers have that option,” said Sen. Hassan. “I am glad to introduce this bill with Senator Scott that would include athletic directors and coaches in the group of educators who can get certain out-of-pocket expenses covered, and I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this legislation.“
S. 3411 has received endorsements from Nike Inc., adidas America Inc., the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, and the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association.