NW Illinois News

Andrew Chesney doesn't understand how lawmakers in Springfield rationalize putting the financial weight of the entire government on the shoulders of a few.

“We need to become a more efficient and effective government rather than just looking to the same group of people to bail us out over and over again,” Chesney told the NW Illinois News. “Our focus needs to be on becoming a better government instead of just a bigger one.”

The Illinois News Network (INN) reports some lawmakers are now pushing the idea of a mileage tax, a proposal that recently picked up steam when Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker expressed an openness to seeing it enacted.

Nick Hyde

According to INN, the measure would require motorists to track the miles they travel using a device placed in their vehicles and then pay taxes on those miles. The funds generated by the new tax would be applied to infrastructure projects across the state.

“It’s an outrageous idea to be looking to tax people again on top of everything they already pay,” said Chesney, who is running against Democrat Nick Hyde for the 89th House District seat. “This state would be much better served if Springfield just lived within its means. It’s time we exhibited some fiscal responsibility and did the things we are entrusted to do as a government.”

Lawmakers need to consider every option for getting the state’s finances under control and not simply rely on more tax increases, Chesney said.

“Our challenge shouldn’t be finding ways to generate more revenue,” he said. “The state hasn't proven to be good stewards of the dollars we have. To compound the issue would only exacerbate the problem.”

The 89th House District includes portions of Jo Daviess, Stephenson, Winnebago, Carroll, Ogle and Whiteside counties.