The tollway authority will vote on raising passenger tolls by 45 cents.

Drivers paid nearly $27 billion in tolls from 2024 back to 1973, the year the roads were to become toll-free. Now the largest passenger toll hike in Illinois history is possible.

Illinois drivers were supposed to be ‘toll free in ’73.’ But in 2019, state leaders still show no sign of abandoning tollway revenue.

History shows Illinois politicians favor tax hikes over spending reform, and the Tollway and 2011 income tax battle offer examples of the dangers taxpayers face when politicians toy with a temporary tax hike.

Despite the massive size and scope of the project to widen the Tri-State, the Illinois Tollway board suggests new tolls and taxes won’t be needed ­– but history shows that promises related to tolls in Illinois haven’t held up in the past.

Illinois politicians are once again eyeing a “temporary” tax increase, and residents should be wary. History shows Illinois politicians favor tax hikes over spending reform, and the Tollway and 2011 income tax battle offer examples of the dangers taxpayers face when politicians toy with a temporary tax hike.

In the past two years, the Illinois Tollway Authority has filed lawsuits totaling $11 million against drivers who didn’t pay tolls – a fee that was originally sold to the public as “temporary.” When the Illinois Tollway was originally created in 1953, lawmakers used the revenue to pay for the original bonding needed to build...

Introduction Rod Blagojevich’s tenure as governor of Illinois will have a lasting effect on the state’s reputation and fiscal condition. From January 2003 to January 2009, Blagojevich made headlines for his sensational comments, political feuds and backroom deals. After being arrested in December 2008 on charges of political corruption, the Legislature removed him from office...