At a time when Illinois families are struggling with inflation, high grocery bills, and rising utility costs, Democrats in Springfield are pushing a $6 billion tax hike to support Gov. JB Pritzker’s record-breaking state budget. That Governor’s proposed budget would represent an increase in state spending of 37% since he took office, an increase of roughly $15 billion. 

With a large projected budget deficit, Democrats are doubling down on new taxes rather than adjusting spending. The tax hike plan includes sweeping new taxes on digital advertising, capital gains, corporate income, and an increase in the estate tax — all of which threaten small businesses, family farms, and investment in the state’s economy. These so-called “targeted” taxes would ultimately be passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices and fewer job opportunities. 

Illinois already suffers from the highest overall tax burden in the country. Rather than offering working families a break, Democrat leaders are demanding more, including benefits for illegal immigrants. The estate tax hike makes it harder for generational family businesses to stay afloat, while taxes on business and investment risk driving employers out of Illinois entirely. 

According to the Senate Republicans, this isn’t a plan to fix Illinois’ economy; it’s a blueprint for more government dependency, fewer jobs, and continued outmigration.