West Central Reporter

Illinois lawmakers are preparing for debates over potential tax increases during the upcoming veto session. Democratic legislators are expected to propose new taxes aimed at addressing budget gaps and funding shortfalls, particularly for the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) in the Chicago area, which faces a deficit estimated at $202 million due to ongoing mismanagement and reduced ridership.

Earlier this year, the Illinois General Assembly approved nearly $1 billion in new taxes on items such as sports betting, hotel stays, short-term rentals, cell phones, and tobacco products.

Among the proposals under consideration is a $1.50 delivery tax on each package delivered to homes across Illinois. This measure, introduced during the spring legislative session, would apply statewide.

Deputy Republican Leader Norine Hammond commented, "The proposed delivery tax is a non-starter for House Republicans. Instead of reining in spending, Illinois Democrats want to put an additional burden on some of our most vulnerable populations who rely on home delivery services, such as the elderly, disabled, and fixed-income households. Democrats need to get their priorities straight. They should be working with us to reduce the high cost of living, not piling on more expenses."

Other proposals include increased fees and surcharges related to green energy initiatives, such as battery storage funding and new efficiency mandates, which could result in higher energy bills for residents.

A service tax proposal may also be revisited, targeting over 80 services, including hair salons, dry cleaning, car repair, landscaping, streaming services, plumbing, and home repair. Critics argue this would increase living costs and affect small businesses and working families.

Deputy House Minority Leader Ryan Spain stated, "Illinois is already hemorrhaging families and businesses due to poor leadership in Springfield. An additional tax on essential services would only push more people out of our state due to the ever-expanding tax burden crushing Illinois taxpayers."

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie added, "House Republicans are committed to lowering the tax burden on Illinois families. With the high cost of living in our state, there is simply no room for a tax hike. We need responsible spending and reasonable reform."

Norine Hammond, a Republican, was elected to the Illinois State House in 2023 and represents the state's 94th House District, succeeding Randy Frese.