Sangamon Sun

Illinois Senate leaders had hoped to hold a vote as early as today on a proposed budget plan that would raise the personal income tax rate to at least 4.95 percent, but the complex nature of the deal may stall a vote on the matter.

The plan, crafted by Senate President John Cullerton (D-Chicago) and Minority Leader Christine Radogno (R–Lemont), has continued to evolve in recent days. It would reportedly borrow $7 billion to pay off bills, expand legalized gambling, impose stricter rules on workers’ compensation and freeze local property taxes for two years.

Originally, the plan proposed a new tax on sugary drinks; however, due to strong opposition from a number of business groups, that aspect of the plan has been nixed, the Chicago Tribune reported Tuesday.

Senate leaders have been negotiating the deal in an attempt to solve the state’s unprecedented budget stalemate, which has lasted 18 months.

Though some may view the proposal as a sign of progress between Springfield Republicans and Democrats, many are concerned that Illinoisans cannot handle any more tax hikes.

We spoke with Janet Shaw, a member of the West Suburban Patriots leadership team -- an independent Tea Party group in DuPage County -- to get her take on the proposal.

Q: What are your thoughts on the proposed budget deal?

A: Radogno is selling us out again, and she does not have the authority to agree to this all by herself. In exchange for any temporary income tax increases, we need real solutions.

Q: Do you believe state legislators should raise taxes or cut spending?

A: Cut spending.

Q: Is there anything else you would like to add?

A: Real pension reform. It will require an Illinois Constitution Amendment. This could result in real, long-term structural savings.

Removing the COLA guarantee would go a long way. COLA’s in excess of inflation are bankrupting this state.

Capping pension payouts would also help. How can anyone justify raising taxes on the average family with a family income under $60,000 to pay for $100,000-plus-per-year pension?

I would agree to a temporary income tax increase in exchange for (passed first) a ballot question to allow real pension reform.