Joe Barnas, Illinois Policy Institute News
Illinois lawmakers hand Pritzker another tax loss, pass Chicago pension hike
Lame duck session was busy even when House Democrats weren’t focused on replacing Mike Madigan as speaker. Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s small business tax hike died as 23 bills were passed, including one making Chicago’s pension woes worse.
Illinois' sobering 'sin taxes' among nation's highest this new year
Excise taxes have failed to improve Illinoisans’ health while creating an undue burden for those with the least. But lawmakers have yet to kick the habit.
Pritzker closes indoor dining throughout Illinois starting Nov. 4
All of Illinois will be under tighter restrictions starting Wednesday, with Gov. J.B. Pritzker imposing an indoor dining ban as his answer to the spread of COVID-19.
Illinois unemployment benefits stolen as state fails to implement basic security
The Illinois Department of Employment Security troubles included scores of unemployed unable to get benefits, nearly 32,500 Social Security numbers exposed and now benefits theft. A simple fix used by many online retailers could have prevented the thefts.
Illinois lawmakers pass Election Day holiday for government workers only
Election Day 2020 would be a paid holiday for all government workers – at an unknown cost to already ailing local governments.
Pritzker lifts 10-person limit on religous gatherings after facing legal challenges
After being asked by the U.S. Supreme Court to reply to religious groups’ objections, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced he was ending the 10-person limit on religious gatherings.
Illinois gas tax will double in July, then likely rise nearly a penny a year
The state gas tax is projected to automatically increase 130% by 2025, without lawmaker approval. That’s almost 25 cents more on a gallon of gas.
Illinois Senate bill would abolish daylight saving time
One Illinois lawmaker has proposed to do away with the unpopular practice of changing the clock twice a year.
Illinois Senate passes bill barring pension double-dipping for local politicians
Illinois is home to the nation’s worst pension problem. A bill aimed at double-dipping by local politicians could make it better as Illinois pursues a pension system overhaul.
Moving company ranks Illinois second in nation for outbound moves
Outbound movers cited lack of jobs as most common reason for leaving Illinois in 2018. Most of those who left earned at least $100,000.
Collinsville area voters to decide whether to eliminate park district
Voters residing in the Collinsville area will consider Nov. 6 whether the Collinsville Area Recreation District should be dissolved.
Poll: High taxes No. 1 reason Illinoisans consider leaving state
Over half of survey respondents have considered leaving Illinois, citing dysfunctional government, disappointing job opportunities and – above all – high taxes.