Tax Hikes on the Table
Tax Hikes on the Table
Tobacco tax hikes come with a number of significant policy complications.
$750K Grant to Consolidated Grain & Barge Co.
$750K Grant to Consolidated Grain & Barge Co.
In fiscal year 2009, the DCEO gave the Consolidated Grain & Barge Co a $750K grant to expand their operations in Mound City, Illinois.
11 New Signers of Transparency Pledge
11 New Signers of Transparency Pledge
The Transparency Pledge has received bi-partisan support with 6 Republicans and 5 Democrats signing the pledge since April 20th.
Capitol Update: SB 2494
Capitol Update: SB 2494
Director of education policy Collin Hitt gives an update on SB 2494, the bill that would give vouchers to students in Chicago's worst schools.
Capitol Update: The Illinois Budget
Capitol Update: The Illinois Budget
Executive vice president Kristina Rasmussen gives an update on the intense debate going on in the House on the state budget.
UPCOMING EVENT: May 22 – Understanding the Charter Public School Option
UPCOMING EVENT: May 22 – Understanding the Charter Public School Option
The keynote speaker is Tim King Founder and CEO, Urban Prep Academies. Come to this event and meet Chicago-Area Charter School Operators and Developers.
Update on SB2494 and School Choice
Update on SB2494 and School Choice
Learn more.
Medicaid Transparency Passes Both Houses
Medicaid Transparency Passes Both Houses
Medicaid transparency (HB5241) has passed both Houses and now awaits a signature from the Governor.
The Governor’s Horticulturist
The Governor’s Horticulturist
In 2008, the Governor's Office employed a horticulturist who cost taxpayers $61,000.
POST-EVENT REPORT: May 5 – Rich States, Poor States. Where Does Illinois Rank?
POST-EVENT REPORT: May 5 – Rich States, Poor States. Where Does Illinois Rank?
The Illinois Policy Institute held a luncheon discussion
Letter to the Editor: User Taxes Ultimately Affect All Taxpayers
Letter to the Editor: User Taxes Ultimately Affect All Taxpayers
Kristina Rasmussen's letter is featured in the Daily Herald. She explains why something like a cigarette tax would affect all taxpayers, not just smokers.
$1.6 Million to International Coal Group, Inc
$1.6 Million to International Coal Group, Inc
In fiscal year 2009, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity gave International Coal Group, Inc a $1.6 million dollar grant as part of the Coal Competitiveness Program.
The Governor’s Entourage: 2008
The Governor’s Entourage: 2008
In 2008, the Governor's office employed numerous staff members to keep the residence up and running.
$45K on Butlers for Governor’s Mansion
$45K on Butlers for Governor’s Mansion
In 2008, the Governor's Office employed three butlers who each made over $2,500 per month.