Illinois Now Highest Taxed State in the Nation
We are now the highest-taxed state in the country, according to WalletHub’s latest annual study on state tax rates, a distinction that highlights the growing financial strain on families and job creators.
The report compares all 50 states and the District of Columbia across four key tax categories: real estate, vehicle property, income, and sales excise taxes. Illinois placed 51st overall, with 50th for real estate taxes and 47th for income taxes, making it the most burdensome state for residents and small businesses alike.
Illinois’ real estate tax rate is nearly 8%, second only to New Jersey, far above the national average. The study also found Illinois’ taxes are 51.8% higher than the U.S. average, with New York as the next closest at 34.9%. In contrast, states like Alaska, Delaware, and Wyoming impose the lowest taxes, creating more favorable conditions for families and job creators.
Additionally, WalletHub’s national survey revealed that 70% of Americans are more concerned about inflation than taxes, and nearly one-third would rather serve on jury duty than file their taxes. For Illinois families and entrepreneurs, these high tax rates exacerbate the state’s ongoing economic and fiscal challenges.
Illinois continues to face the highest tax burden in the nation, sparking ongoing discussions about how to address the impact on the state’s economic future.
I will do everything possible to drive down taxes across the board. We need efficiency improvements across every area of government.
Controversial Bill Could Legalize Attacks on Police
My colleagues and I are sounding the alarm over House Bill 3458, a controversial proposal that could effectively legalize assaulting police officers by allowing individuals to use mental health crises as a defense. Critics warn that this could embolden criminals to attack officers with fewer consequences, making law enforcement’s already dangerous job even riskier.
While proponents argue the bill is designed to protect those in mental distress, opponents see it as a dangerous loophole that weakens accountability. The bill applies only to police officers, not other first responders, raising concerns about fairness and potential exploitation. Additionally, critics argue that judges already have the discretion to consider mental health in sentencing, making this bill unnecessary.
Police officers risk their lives to protect communities, and this bill sends a reckless message that assaulting law enforcement could come with fewer consequences. Senate Republicans are calling for a reevaluation of the proposal, urging lawmakers to prioritize officer safety and public protection.
Urgency for Illinois State Senators as Friday Deadline Looms
The deadline to pass substantive bills out of committee is fast approaching. Lawmakers in both the Senate and the House have until Friday, March 21st, to move bills that have originated in their respective chambers out of committee.
Incredibly, more than 2,000 Senate Bills and 4,000 House Bills have been filed in the General Assembly since January. Fortunately, many of these bills are unlikely to advance before the upcoming deadline. This is a good thing because there is a lot of bad bills out there. My hope is that some of the very good legislation will move forward this week.
State budget proposal includes funding to rehabilitate Dwight Correctional Center
The Dwight Correctional Center in Livingston County has sat vacant for over a decade, with its 160 acres of buildings and grounds falling into disrepair. Now, the state is planning improvements to make the site more appealing to private developers.
The Governor’s proposed budget includes a $300 million investment to clean up unused state properties, with the goal of attracting private development and boosting local economic activity. Dwight is one of five locations included in the proposal, alongside sites in Jacksonville, Lincoln, Rockford, and Kankakee. Last year, the state spent $1.7 million to maintain surplus properties.
Update on HB 2827 – Homeschooling Bill
House Bill 2827 is scheduled for a hearing in the Education Policy Committee on March 19th at the Capitol. So far, there are only 721 people filed in support and 31,755 filed in opposition! This strong response reflects the serious concerns from families across the state about the impact of increased homeschooling regulations. Your voice matters!
I remain strongly opposed to HB2827 and stands with the thousands of families who have voiced their concerns. He believes this bill threatens parental rights, creates unnecessary government overreach, and undermines the flexibility that makes homeschooling successful. If HB2827 reaches the Senate, I will vote NO to protect parental choice and educational freedom. You can follow the bill status here.
I hope everyone has a wonderful week! Feel free to reply to this email to provide comments and suggestions. I read every email!