Sangamon Sun

Yesterday, Representative Coffey joined Patrick Pfingsten on WMAY to discuss ongoing budget negotiations, the current spring session, and his vision for Illinois' prosperity. Coffey expressed dissatisfaction with the exclusion of Republicans from the budget-making process, particularly concerning a $53 billion budget proposal.

Coffey remarked, "This year, Republicans have been left in the dark yet again on the budget making process. I’m disappointed that we have not had the opportunity for bipartisan discussions about a massive $53 billion budget proposal." He noted that six years ago, Illinois' state budget was approximately $40 billion and highlighted concerns over increased spending and taxation: "The people of Illinois are tapped out."

Addressing additional fiscal issues, Coffey pointed out that Illinois has the second highest property taxes in the country with an effective tax rate double the national average. He attributed this burden to the state's 8,000 taxing authorities—the highest number in the nation.

"If we truly want to turn Illinois around," Coffey emphasized, "we must have a government that creates economic opportunity for the state to generate revenue to pay for services and programs. It’s not good business and it’s not good for hard-working families."

For further details on Rep. Coffey's perspectives and legislative efforts, listeners were encouraged to access his full interview on WMAY.