Over the last three weeks, there has been intense conversation and numerous proposals in the Senate to get Illinois out of its fiscal mess. I support this much-needed discussion especially considering that by next July, Illinois’ bill backlog could reach $13.5 billion, nearly doubling in just one year.
Several years ago, I proposed my own budget with a five percent cut across the board to state spending. It was meant to prevent the problems facing us today. At the time, Illinois was controlled entirely by Chicago Democrats who ignored my proposal and chose instead to vilify my proposal with the typical rhetoric thrown at a Republican daring to suggest cuts. Boy, how I bet they wish they could get out of this crisis now with just a five percent cut. Now, their spending has pushed us over the edge.
In November 2014, Illinois citizens voted for divided government, with Democrats running the legislature and Republicans controlling the Governor’s office. The obvious reality of this situation is that no one is going to get everything they want in a potential budget deal. But, given the state’s debt trajectory, to not be working with my colleagues in the Senate to find a way out of this mess would be irresponsible.
However, I strongly believe that we must reform and cut state government before looking to raise taxes on the citizens of Illinois. Therefore, I have been working intensely with my colleagues in the Senate to drive a better bargain for the citizens of Illinois. For example, when a proposal was introduced that would have put a tax on sugary drinks, an idea that would hurt consumers and severely damage Illinois’ number one jobs sector, agriculture, I spoke up and said “no.” The sugar tax is now out of the discussion.
Moreover, we need significant structural reforms in how Illinois does business to encourage job creation. Items that I am supporting include mandate relief for local governments (so they don’t need as much property tax money to function). I am also working on a better workers’ compensation reform plan to help employers create jobs in Illinois. Finally, strengthening property taxpayer protection is important, and a reform I’m also pursuing.
To be clear, what has been described as a “grand bargain” in the Senate by some, is not a done deal. It’s a fluid discussion between members of the Senate to try to come to an agreement on how to get the state out of its fiscal mess. Proposals have changed ten times over in the past three weeks and will change again. But, I will continue to push for more cuts to government spending and significant and real reforms for the taxpayers and job creators as this process continues.
Chapin Rose
State Senator, 51st District
