Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Dave Severin has expressed strong opposition to the Illinois Democrats' proposal to raise billions in new taxes. As the House's adjournment date approaches, Severin criticized the state's budget increase since Governor Pritzker took office, noting a $15 billion rise over six years.

Severin stated, "Since Governor Pritzker took office, baseline state budget spending has increased by nearly $15 billion. That’s an enormous increase in just six years, and Illinoisans cannot afford to continue to pay more taxes to fund a government that is growing out of control." He emphasized prioritizing citizens over illegal immigrants who have benefited from welfare and medical services under the state's Sanctuary State policies.

Proposals for tax hikes on services such as sales, delivery, advertising, and more have been suggested by advocacy groups and elected Democrats as solutions for balancing the state budget. Severin argues that residents are financially strained and need relief rather than additional burdens.

"Democrats and their allies have introduced a shocking total of more than $10 billion in proposed tax hikes on everything from haircuts to business tax incentives," Severin remarked. "Taxpayers should not be on the hook to clean up the mess made by irresponsible Democrats."

Various advocacy groups like the Chicago Teachers Union and the Illinois Revenue Association have put forward proposals including:

- Sales Tax on Services: $2.7 billion

- Delivery and Digital Advertising Taxes: $890 million

- Investment and Wealth Taxes: $4.24 billion

- Gambling and Casino Taxes: $1.89 billion

- Business and Corporate Taxes: $2.3 billion

Severin maintains his stance against any further tax increases or expansion of government operations.