A city charter could bring order to Chicago’s dysfunction. How can it get one?

By Joe Tabor, Ed Bachrach

03/26/2025

A city charter would put much-needed guardrails on the Chicago government. Here’s what needs to happen to get one.

Illinois’ So-Called ‘Millionaire Tax’ Makes All Taxpayers a Target

By Matheus Cosso

03/05/2025

The “millionaire tax” will increase Illinois’ tax burden without necessarily increasing public funds. Revenue intended for education may fall short of expectations and will likely be absorbed by school administration before reaching students.

TAGS: millionaire tax

Illinois’ flat income tax puts taxpayers exactly in middle, encourages wealthy to stay

By Patrick Andriesen

02/26/2025

A new report from the Tax Foundation shows the typical Illinois taxpayer will save big thanks to the constitutional protections of Illinois’ flat tax. Some state lawmakers want to take that protection away.

Bill introduced to again try for progressive income tax in Illinois

By Bryce Hill

02/17/2025

The Illinois Constitution currently requires income taxes to be imposed at a single, flat rate. A new bill filed in the Illinois General Assembly would allow for income to be taxed at varying rates, making it easier for lawmakers to raise rates.

TAGS: progressive income tax

A way out: Bankruptcy authorization would give struggling Illinois municipalities options

By Joe Tabor

02/10/2025

Published Feb. 10, 2025 Even though federal COVID relief funds provided an unexpected windfall, that one-time jolt of cash could leave many Illinois localities even worse off than they were before. That boost in revenue allowed local governments to put off difficult budgeting decisions, and as that revenue dries up, municipalities will have to contend...

Amendment would allow Illinoisans to recall state leaders, local politicians

By Dylan Sharkey

01/22/2025

Illinoisans would have the chance to recall state and local politicians under a proposal in Springfield.

TAGS: corruption, Mike Madigan

3 ways to balance Chicago’s next budget without tax hikes

By Ravi Mishra, Lauren Zuar

01/20/2025

Chicago might have just avoided a property tax hike, but city leaders couldn’t figure out how to pass the 2025 budget without other tax and fee increases. Here’s what the city should do to avoid repeating the same budgeting mistakes next year.

TAGS: Chicago

How government unions work against interests of private-sector unions, taxpayers

By Mailee Smith

01/08/2025

Government unions posed threats to public welfare that were recognized by founders of the labor movement and by progressive icon Franklin D. Roosevelt. Those threats have become reality, with government union power dominating – especially in Illinois.

Chicago property taxes have doubled in 10 years, thanks to pensions

By Bryce Hill

12/17/2024

Chicago’s government pension obligations have increased nearly sixfold since 2014, driving up Chicago’s sky-high property taxes. Another increase for 2025 was likely avoided, but city leaders need state lawmakers to make a permanent fix.

Illinois state pension debt climbs to $144B

By LyLena Estabine

12/16/2024

Illinois' unfunded statewide public pension liabilities grew another $1.5 billion in the past year. Better investment returns couldn’t keep up with public worker pensions growing faster than projected.

Constitution of Illinois

A city charter could bring order to Chicago’s dysfunction. How can it get one?

Illinois’ So-Called ‘Millionaire Tax’ Makes All Taxpayers a Target

Illinois’ flat income tax puts taxpayers exactly in middle, encourages wealthy to stay

Bill introduced to again try for progressive income tax in Illinois

A way out: Bankruptcy authorization would give struggling Illinois municipalities options

Amendment would allow Illinoisans to recall state leaders, local politicians

3 ways to balance Chicago’s next budget without tax hikes

How government unions work against interests of private-sector unions, taxpayers

Chicago property taxes have doubled in 10 years, thanks to pensions

Illinois state pension debt climbs to $144B

Pathway to a Profession: How Apprenticeships Could Reshape Illinois’ Beauty Service Industry

Report Archive

Diana Graham

Process for unionizing non-state workers raises red flags

CBS Chicago: Illinois’ highest-paid superintendent receives $400K per year to oversee 1,200 students