NW Illinois News

Sen. Neil Anderson (R-Rock Island) tried to reduce the tax burden on Illinois residents who worked overtime, but the policy never made it to the floor for a vote. 

The Republican lawmaker's proposal made overtime earnings a tax deduction, essentially making that extra income tax-free. It was just one of many GOP-driven pieces of legislation that did not advance in the Democratic-led Senate, Anderson said in an April 30 statement. 

"Illinois residents should not be taxed more for working more," Anderson said about Senate Bill 2162. "This bill provides actual relief for those who work long hours."

Senate Bill 2162 would help alleviate tax burdens on work-a-day Illinoisans by deducting state income taxes on overtime pay. An Illinoisan who overtime under would still have state income taxes withheld, but s/he would receive a deduction on their tax return for the amount in taxes paid on overtime.

The failure of SB 2162's is one of many Republican-led bills that GOPers say have been sidelined by Democrats. Republican legislators have been complaining for weeks that most of their proposals are being left to sink in Senate and House committees, despite the Democratic-majority's expressed willingness to work better together following the end of long-time House Speaker Michael Madigan's reign. Republicans had sponsored Twenty-seven percent of the 300 bills on a recent House consent calendar.

In the Senate, GOP legislation hasn't been faring much better, and SB 2162 is one example. Anderson introduced SB 2162 into that chamber in late February. It has since bounced between Senate Assignments and Revenue committee. It also gained no additional sponsors and has made no traction at all.

Anderson said he had filed a request for a deadline extension on SB 2162.

"Hardworking people need a break, and we should be able to give them one," he said. "We're not taking away any tax money from the government; we just simply would not be adding additional taxes to their hard-earned money."