The progressive tax amendment on the ballot Nov. 3 removes the constitutional prohibition on multiple taxation, in addition to removing the flat tax protection.

Passing the progressive tax would empower state lawmakers to go after seniors’ retirement income.

Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs said a progressive state income tax will open the door to taxing retirement income.

Illinois' credit rating is just one notch above junk, the lowest of any U.S. state.

Lawmakers made no serious attempt to balance the new budget, instead counting on a federal bailout.

Lawmakers made no serious attempt to balance the new budget, instead counting on a federal bailout. They accepted an $1,800 raise for themselves, while only making significant cuts to education.

Illinois lawmakers are still likely to receive a $1,800 pay raise. But some have tried their best to make no waves by giving themselves cover from backlash.