News
Tax cap rewrite returns bill to House, SenateSkyline 28 SeptemberBlagojevich used his amendatory veto power Sept. 20 to raise the maximum size of the exemption and provide more coverage for owners of pricier homes and those with above-average assessment increases.
Illinois Gambling Future Bright, Uncertain AP/Houston Chronicle 24 September All the pieces could be, just might be, falling into place for major gambling expansion in Illinois. [State] Lawmakers desperately want money for transportation projects throughout the state and mass transit in Chicago...gambling expansion often is seen as the least painful avenue for taxpayers and politicians...the Illinois Senate's approval of three new casinos last week brings the idea closer to reality.
Jones may back tax hike to fund CTA Chicago Sun-Times 23 September The head of the Illinois Senate for the first time is indicating he might stomach a sales-tax hike to bail out the Chicago area's mass transit systems -- a potential step toward ending CTA threats of fare hikes and service cuts.
Archived News Links Issues & Opportunities
Property Tax Cap: State representatives John Fritchey and Elga Jeffries were chief sponsors of HB664, legislation to extend and increase the property tax cap bill enacted a few years ago. HB664 passed both houses on August 10th and was sent to the Governor on August 23rd. Read Fritchey's summary letter to learn more. Opinions
Events
Town Hall Meetings with State Representatives: Join host and State Representative John Fritchey to discuss important issues affecting the community, and talk about the latest news in Springfield. All meetings begin at 7 p.m. Free. Information: Aviva Gibbs at 773.8871.4000
17 September: Lincoln Belmont Branch Library, 1659 W. Melrose
24 September: Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave with State Senator John Cullerton
Illinois State Budget briefing: The Donors Forum and the Center for Tax and Budget Accountability co-host a briefing on the 2008 Illinois state budget, with focus on the nonprofit sector. 17 September 17, 9-11 AM, at the Spertus Institute, 618 S. Michigan. $40 public/$32 members. Register at www.donorsforum.org or call 312.578.0090. Candidates Contribute to your Democratic state candidates on ActBlue 