NW Illinois News

Illinois House Republicans have criticized proposals from progressive interest groups that would raise taxes by $6 billion on working families and businesses in Illinois. During a press conference, members of House Minority Leader Tony McCombie's leadership team described the tax hike proposals as "outrageous and unacceptable."

Progressive Democrats have intensified their campaign for a graduated income tax hike, despite Illinois voters rejecting a constitutional amendment for a progressive income tax in 2020. The Illinois Revenue Alliance has proposed tax hikes that would increase taxes by $6 billion. Deputy Minority Leader Norine Hammond commented, "These progressive special interests that are part of the Illinois Revenue Alliance, aka the ‘Tax-and-Spend Alliance,’ are proposing $6 billion in new taxes on hardworking Illinois families and businesses."

Hammond, who serves as the Chief Budgeteer for the House Republican Caucus, highlighted her concerns about a proposal to raise the Estate Tax by cutting the exemption from $4 million to $2 million. "Our family farmers are struggling enough already," said Rep. Hammond. "They shouldn’t have to sell the family farm just to pay this unfair tax."

Deputy Budgeteer Amy Elik questioned why state agencies have not presented proposed budget cuts instead of increasing taxes. "The people of Illinois are tapped out. We cannot accept ANY tax increases," said Rep. Elik. "Our seniors are suffering under the weight of crushing property tax bills."

Governor JB Pritzker's rhetoric has also come under scrutiny. During a speech in March, Pritzker said, "Bullies respond to one thing, and one thing only, a punch in the face." He further emphasized a call for disruption at a New Hampshire Democratic Party fundraiser by stating, "These Republicans cannot know a moment of peace."

Assistant Minority Leader C.D. Davidsmeyer criticized Pritzker's comments, stating, "Governor Pritzker, your comments are appalling. You should apologize to all Republicans for encouraging harassment and disruption."

Davidsmeyer urged the Governor to focus on working with Republicans on a balanced budget, adding, "Governor Pritzker, do the job you were elected to do, not the job you so desperately want in Washington, D.C."