Governor J.B. Pritzker's spending plan, which includes nearly one billion dollars in tax increases and financial strategies, passed the General Assembly on May 31. Once enacted, it will become Illinois' largest budget, exceeding fifty-five billion dollars. This marks an increase of nearly fifteen billion dollars since Governor Pritzker assumed office.
State Senator Sue Rezin opposed the proposal, stating it prioritizes government expansion over working families' needs. The budget introduces new taxes on vacation rentals like Airbnb, gaming, phone services, and nicotine products. It also includes hundreds of millions in new business taxes that may be transferred to consumers. Democrats used approximately $400 million in one-time revenue measures and accounting methods to balance the budget.
The plan allocates millions for non-citizen programs but is criticized for not adequately supporting the developmentally disabled community, K-12 and college students, and taxpayers. In contrast to federal tax cuts aimed at aiding working people and families, Illinois Democrats are increasing financial demands on residents.
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