Graduated Income Tax in Illinois

Legislation (HJRCA 33/SJRCA 40) is pending in Springfield for a constitutional amendment on a fair tax allowing for higher rates on higher incomes and lower rates on lower incomes. The League of Women Voters Illinois (LWVIL) supports this plan, rather than the flat tax now imposed in Illinois.   LWVIL believes this amendment will bring fairness to Illinois' tax code, helping Illinois’ families. It will help Illinois protect key priorities such as education, public safety, health care, and human services. These vital services have been significantly shortchanged in recent years because of Illinois' systemic budget problems; the result of an out-of-date tax code which overburdens middle income families. The legislation embodies another important principle: citizen participation.   If adopted by the General Assembly, this referendum would ask Illinois voters if they want to amend the 1970 Illinois Constitution, which currently states that the personal income tax must be non-graduated (flat).   The LWVIL knows it is time for long-term budget solutions to help rebuild Illinois' economy and provide sustained support to programs and services that people need. Adoption of a graduated income tax achieves a necessary step in reaching these goals.   Signed:
Mary Kubasak, President LWVIL Hilary Denk & Peggy Healy, Co-Presidents, LWV Downers Grove/Lisle/Woodridge Sue Whitworth, President, LWV Elmhurst Jayne Boeckelman, President, LWV Glen Ellyn Mary Wright, President, LWV Naperville Diana Hoke, President, LWV Roselle/Bloomingdale            Missey Wilhelm, President, LWV Wheaton