Illinoisans would pay a new bag tax under a proposed bill in Springfield. The tax would only deepen concerns that the state keeps increasing the cost burden.

Illinoisans pay the third-highest gas taxes in the nation at nearly $0.85 per gallon. California leads and Michigan edged into the No. 2 spot.

Lawsuits are mounting from homeowners, investors and counties. Unless lawmakers act, taxpayers could pay millions in damages over Illinois' unconstitutional tax sale system.

Illinois risks millions in penalties under new federal law because of errors in determining who qualifies for food assistance. To protect taxpayers and struggling families, the state must increase its administrative precision.