Sangamon Sun

New data from the Internal Revenue Service shows that in 2022 alone, more than 87,000 Illinoisans, faced with some of the highest taxes in the nation, relocated to other states. This exodus saw nearly $10 billion in income leaving Illinois, significantly impacting the state’s economic landscape. Meanwhile, the City of Chicago has earned the distinction of having the third-highest rate of domestic population loss in the country, underscoring a broader pattern of outmigration.

Illinois’ high tax burden has long been a critical factor driving residents to seek refuge in more tax-friendly states. This spring, Governor J.B. Pritzker made it clear that working families are unlikely to see meaningful tax cuts any time soon, signing nearly $1 billion in tax hikes into law to fund spending on the migrant crisis he invited.

Senate Republicans argue that the continued high tax burden on working families and misplaced policy priorities are key contributors to the ongoing population decline. Senator Bennett asserts that state leaders must recognize that current policies are driving residents away and instead focus on enacting genuine relief and reforms to help Illinoisans.

“The recent attack on President Trump, which sadly resulted in the death of one man and injuries to others, shows just how dangerous our divided political climate has become," said Senator Tom Bennett. "My thoughts and prayers go out to President Trump, the other victims and their families."

“Violence against any public official is never acceptable regardless of political beliefs. God bless those affected and our country.”

The Illinois State Fair Museum Foundation is seeking nominations for the “Illinoisan of the Day” program at this year’s Illinois State Fair, running from August 8 to 18. The foundation aims to recognize 10 outstanding community servants each day who have significantly contributed to county and state fairs in Illinois.

To be eligible, nominees must be Illinois residents, 25 years or older, with a history of service at state and/or county fairs in the state. Nominees should also demonstrate characteristics such as integrity, dependability, community spirit, and strong ethics. Those selected will be honored during one of the days of the Illinois State Fair.

Nomination forms are available on the foundation’s website at www.illinoisstatefairmuseum.org with a submission deadline of July 20.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is reminding drivers to exercise caution, slow down, and avoid distractions as maintenance crews continue roadside mowing into summer months.

Beginning July 1, IDOT conducts both safety mowing directly adjacent to roads as needed and maintenance mowing including areas next to culverts, ditches traffic control devices and other structures.

According to recent statistics Illinois averages almost 6 100 crashes in work zones each year resulting in 1 600 injuries and 28 deaths Heavy maintenance mowing will continue until August 15

As of now,the State of Illinois owes $1 ,868 ,077 ,190 .58to state vendors including4 ,335 pending vouchers.This figure represents bills submitted tothe officeof Comptroller still awaiting payment.It does not include debts only estimated,such as unfunded pension liability subject wide range factors estimated more than$139billion.Last year,state accounts payable stood less$2billion

Did you know Sibley ,Illinois was home largest corn crib world?Built1910 Fletcher Harper Sibley grandson Hiram Sibley acquired portion Burr Oaks Farm after death original owner Michael Lucas Sullivant.Sullivant successful Ohio farmer movedIllinois1867 transformed vast prairies productive cornfields.By1870,Burr Oak farm largest United States Harper's Weekly described immense scale corn production.Corn crib built Fletcher Sibley impressive325 feet long35feet high72 .5feet wide costing$20 ,073 equivalent$647 ,000 today.Crib stood testament agricultural legacy Sullivant Sibley families rich farming history Sibley

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