The progressive tax’s structure fails to account for inflation and includes a marriage penalty for 4 million Illinoisans. It is designed to creep farther into taxpayers’ wallets.
Despite the hardships small businesses face from COVID-19 restrictions, Pritzker continues to push for a tax increase on them.
Pritzker’s progressive income tax amendment would hurt small, minority-owned businesses the most.
Illinois doubled the gas tax in 2019, which pushed it to No. 3 in the nation for highest average gas tax.
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s ‘fair tax’ would raise Illinois business taxes to the highest in the nation as neighboring Indiana cuts taxes to draw businesses across the border.
"With the high overall cost of living, I have a lot more going out than coming in. This is why I must keep working at age 68."
Illinois politicians are already talking about taxing retirees, adding “surcharges” and city income taxes if they can convince voters to abandon the Illinois Constitution’s flat tax protection and give lawmakers greater taxing power.
“At first glance, [a progressive income tax] seems like maybe it wouldn’t be bad, until you read more. Every state that is adopting this kind of structure is taxing retirement income. That’s a killer for me."
The progressive tax amendment on the ballot Nov. 3 removes the constitutional prohibition on multiple taxation, in addition to removing the flat tax protection.
Pritzker has been pushing hard for a progressive income tax amendment as a way to generate $3.7 billion for state spending.
Chicago leaders have been unable to finish developing valuable land after 23 years and $331 million in taxes, but convinced state leaders more time and money were needed.
Income taxes rose 32% for individuals and 33% for corporations in 2017, raising Illinois’ total tax burden to at least sixth highest from 10th highest. More than $1.2 billion went to pensions and debt.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Illinois lawmakers agree that when taxes are too high, not even a casino in the heart of Chicago can make money.
Passing the progressive tax would empower state lawmakers to go after seniors’ retirement income.