Illinois State Representative Charles E. Meier has raised concerns about the state’s economic outlook and tax burden, referencing recent reports from Moody’s Analytics and WalletHub. In a statement following Governor JB Pritzker’s budget address, Meier criticized the governor for attributing Illinois’ financial challenges to federal policies rather than addressing issues within the state.
Meier cited findings from Moody’s Analytics, which projected that “Illinois’ economy will underperform the Midwest and the U.S. in the coming year.” The report also noted ongoing challenges: “Below-average population trends and deep-rooted fiscal problems such as mounting pension obligations and a shrinking tax base represent the biggest hurdles to stronger economic performance.” Additionally, it stated, “Persistent out-migration will weigh on the strength of employment and income gains,” and concluded that “the state’s performance has been weaker than that of the region and the nation.”
The WalletHub report ranked Illinois as having the highest overall state and local tax rates in the country—53% higher than the national average. This places an additional strain on residents already dealing with rising living costs.
According to Meier, these factors contribute to families leaving Illinois, slow economic growth, and a high tax burden compared to other states. He argued that years of one-party rule have resulted in overspending and frequent tax increases.
Meier emphasized his commitment to advocating for policies aimed at improving affordability for families and restoring fiscal stability in Illinois. He also questioned Governor Pritzker’s approach: “Governor JB Pritzker has spent months attacking the federal government for overreach. Yet here in Illinois, he continues to push proposals that do the very same thing, taking away critical funding and stripping local control from communities across our state.”
One issue highlighted was whether Illinois should opt into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program. According to polling conducted by M3 Strategies for the Illinois Policy Institute in February 2026, nearly 55% of registered voters support opting into this program, while only about one in five oppose it.
The program would allow students in public or private schools to access scholarships funded by taxpayer donations—donors receive a dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit up to $1,700 per qualified contribution—to pay for tutoring, educational materials, exam fees, or therapies for students with disabilities. There is no cost to states; if Illinois does not participate by January 1st next year, residents can still claim credits but scholarship funds would go elsewhere.
In addition to policy matters, Meier reminded constituents about Daylight Saving Time beginning this Sunday when clocks move forward one hour across Illinois—a change observed by neighboring states Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Indiana (in certain counties), and Kentucky (in certain counties).
Meier was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 109th House District in 2023 after succeeding David Reis.
He encouraged community members needing assistance with any state agency issues to contact his office.
