The Senate’s “grand bargain” contains a one-year spending “cap” that won’t improve fiscal responsibility. A real cap must come with structural spending reforms to return spending to a level that taxpayers can afford.

Gov. Bruce Rauner has suggested funding CPS with tax increment financing, or TIF, funds; this would temporarily bail out the district, but more needs to be done to address serious concerns about Chicago’s TIF program.

A new proposal from state Sen. Toi Hutchinson, D-Chicago Heights, would tax internet streaming services in Illinois, much like the potentially illegal internet streaming tax implemented in Chicago.

In the wake of the “grand bargain” budget plan failure, an Illinois politician has proposed applying the 6.25 percent state sales tax to a broad range of services.

The Senate adjourned yesterday without taking any votes on the "grand bargain."

Illinois lawmakers need a new approach to budget-making – one that takes into account the state’s financial mess, shows respect for taxpayers, and prioritizes spending to meet the needs of the poorest and most disadvantaged residents.

Illinois’ combined state and average local sales tax rate is the highest in the Midwest.

The proposal would be part of the Senate’s “grand bargain,” which also includes a multibillion-dollar income tax hike.

In addition to raising the state’s personal and corporate income taxes back near their all-time highs, senators are proposing taxing businesses on the “privilege” of doing business in Illinois, as well as taxing several services.