Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Dave Severin of Benton, Illinois, has introduced a legislative package aimed at reducing the tax burden on residents of the state. The proposal includes measures to lower income taxes, alleviate estate tax burdens, and extend tax credits for families involved in recycling and foster care.

"I believe our citizens are overtaxed and that the State of Illinois spends too much money. That’s why I’m sponsoring legislation to cut taxes and let people keep more of their hard-earned money," Severin stated. He urged his colleagues to support the "Severin Tax Cut" package for prompt passage.

The proposed legislation consists of several bills:

- HB 12 seeks to increase Illinois' estate tax exclusion from $4 million to $6 million for deaths occurring on or after January 1, 2026. This measure is expected to benefit farmers and family agriculture businesses by reducing double taxation upon death.

- HB 13 introduces a foster care tax credit of up to $1,000 per child annually for expenses incurred by foster families. Severin hopes this incentive will encourage more individuals to provide foster care.

- HB 1202 proposes a new tax credit covering up to 100% of eligible recycling costs up to $1,000 for activities related to recyclable waste materials such as paper, glass, and plastic.

- HB 1203 aims to reduce the income tax rate from 4.95% to 4.85% for individuals, trusts, and estates. Severin believes this cut could prevent residents from relocating to states with lower taxes.

“Let’s cut some taxes, spend less government money, incentivize people to foster children, recycle, and invest in their family farm,” Severin added. “Let’s keep more people and businesses in Illinois instead of having more people leave and take their jobs and our people with them."

The package is designed as part of an effort by Rep. Severin's office which operates under state sponsorship without campaign-related content due to ethical regulations.