Rockford Sun

As the Illinois General Assembly enters its second week of the fall veto session, a proposed plan to address Chicago’s transit budget shortfall is drawing criticism from Republican lawmakers. The plan, which could increase costs for families by up to $1.5 billion annually, is intended to support the city’s transit system facing financial difficulties.

The proposals include a range of new taxes and fees: a $1 delivery tax on orders over $100, service taxes on items such as haircuts and car repairs, a $1 toll surcharge for commuters, a 10% rideshare tax, increased real estate transfer taxes, new vehicle taxes, payroll (head) taxes for employers in Chicago, more speed cameras resulting in additional fines, and higher RTA sales taxes affecting suburban purchases.

Republican legislators argue these measures would impact suburban and downstate families who may not use Chicago’s public transportation but would still be required to contribute financially. State Senator Dave Syverson emphasized that Illinois residents are already burdened by rising costs in utilities and property taxes.

“This plan completely misses the mark,” Senator Syverson said. “Families across Illinois are tightening their budgets and doing what they can to get by, while Springfield keeps finding ways to take more from them. We need leaders who understand that taxpayers are not an endless source of revenue.”

Syverson has represented Illinois’ 35th Senate District since his election in 1993 https://www.ilga.gov/senate/Senator.asp?GA=103&MemberID=2929.

The debate continues as lawmakers consider whether these tax increases are necessary or if alternative solutions should be sought.