Illinois residents, like all Americans, face tough economic times. A decade of failed economic policies, however, has exacerbated the problem in our state. Currently, Illinois ranks an abysmal 48th among the 50 states in job creation -- trailed only by Ohio and Michigan.[1] This is an unacceptable statistic for a state as diverse and talent-rich as Illinois. The problem, of course, is not Illinois residents. The problem is Illinois politicians who have created an environment that is hostile to job creation and economic growth.
Illinois residents don't just deserve more job opportunities, they deserve the best job opportunities the market can produce. As state representative, I will work to enact economic reforms designed to make Illinois a destination economy -- a top-tier state for job creation and economic growth. These reforms will include:
- Rollback the "Stroger" Sales Tax Increase. In 2008, under the leadership of Cook County Board President Todd Stroger, the Cook County Board of Commissioners raised Cook County's portion of the sales tax from 0.75% to 1.75%, for a total sales tax of 10.00% in Schaumburg and 10.25% in Chicago, the highest in the country. The Cook County Board later voted to repeal 1/2% of the tax increase, leaving the remainder of the tax increase intact. The unconscionable Stroger sales tax increase further strains family budgets at an already difficult time and suppresses the commerce upon which our community depends. As state representative, I will sponsor legislation to repeal the entire sales tax increase, helping to bring commerce and jobs back to our community.
- Legal and Tort Reform. Illinois ranks as one of the worst states in the country (46th out of 50) for lawsuit abuse.[2] Illinois' reputation for lawsuit abuse keeps prospective employers out of Illinois and increases costs for employers already here, meaning fewer opportunities and lower wages for Illinois workers. As state representative, I will work to enact common sense legal and tort reforms, creating a more favorable climate for job creation in our state.
- 3/5 Supermajority for Tax Increases. For too many politicians in Springfield, tax increases are a tempting policy "shortcut" for closing gaps in the state budget. The problem with tax increases is that they strain family budgets and inhibit job creation and economic growth -- all unacceptable outcomes given our state's economic crisis. In order to protect Illinois families and businesses from unnecessary tax increases -- and to encourage the General Assembly to make more disciplined spending decisions -- I will support a constitutional amendment that would require a 3/5 supermajority vote to pass any legislation that would raise taxes or fees on Illinois families or businesses.
- Tax Incentives for Economic Growth. As state representative, I will work to extend and expand state tax incentives for investment, research and development, and economic growth.