Illinoisans of every age, income bracket moving out of state
Illinoisans of every age, income bracket moving out of state
The bulk of those leaving Illinois are aged 26-54 and their dependents.
The Policy Shop: The Chicago Teachers Union’s Fringe Ideology, Explained
The Policy Shop: The Chicago Teachers Union’s Fringe Ideology, Explained
This edition of The Policy Shop is by Mailee Smith, staff attorney and director of labor policy. People who go to the Illinois Statehouse almost always want something. One way to tell what they want is by looking at the legislation they support or oppose. That’s one way we’ve learned so much about just how...
California considers misleading labor amendment modeled after Illinois’ Amendment 1
California considers misleading labor amendment modeled after Illinois’ Amendment 1
Illinois labor leaders claimed their push to enshrine public union supremacy in the Illinois Constitution was the “blueprint” for other states. Now both California and Pennsylvania are following Illinois’ lead.
NASCAR ticket price up to $272 higher thanks to Chicago tax
NASCAR ticket price up to $272 higher thanks to Chicago tax
The typical racing fan will pay an extra $22 for general admission to Chicago’s NASCAR “Street Race Weekend” thanks to the city’s amusement tax. Luxury seating could cost residents more than the price of a standard ticket in taxes alone.
Chicago Teachers Union: Taking candy from a baby
Chicago Teachers Union: Taking candy from a baby
Chicago Teachers Union repeatedly pushes for tax hikes in Springfield
Chicago Teachers Union repeatedly pushes for tax hikes in Springfield
The Chicago Teachers Union registered its opinion on legislation more than 1,360 times in just six legislative sessions. Its legislative priorities would drive up taxes and make government more expensive, no matter where you live in Illinois.
CTU told lawmakers what to do over 1,360 times in just 6 legislative sessions
CTU told lawmakers what to do over 1,360 times in just 6 legislative sessions
The Chicago Teachers Union pours money into political campaigns, but that isn’t all. It also pressures lawmakers to abide by its legislative agenda. It’s a one-two political punch: helping elect lawmakers and then telling them what to do.
One-third of SEIU workers reject union membership
One-third of SEIU workers reject union membership
It could be because less than 22% of SEIU HCII’s spending is on representing workers – what should be the core purpose of the union.
Chicago students score lower, fewer graduate, fewer go to college
Chicago students score lower, fewer graduate, fewer go to college
The graduation and postsecondary enrollment rates in Chicago were below the statewide average in 2022. Reading and math SAT scores were also below the Illinois average. Other large districts in Cook and the collar counties performed better.
The Policy Shop: Illinois public schools lower the bar instead of raising proficiency
The Policy Shop: Illinois public schools lower the bar instead of raising proficiency
Summer break is here, and with it an opportunity to reflect on how things are going in our schools. Illinois found itself among the minority of states graduating a higher percent of students post-pandemic in 2022. Yet, a deeper dive into state data reveals a troubling trend: while high school graduation rates rose, SAT scores...
Chicago households making $100K targeted by Brandon Johnson allies
Chicago households making $100K targeted by Brandon Johnson allies
An ominously titled document by close confidants of new Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson states the new administration’s top priority is to take more money from households making $100,000 or more to fund what they claim is a “just Chicago.”
Illinois grocery tax returns July 1
Illinois grocery tax returns July 1
Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s temporary tax relief expires July 1 when Illinois reinstates the grocery tax instead of joining the 37 states that don’t tax groceries at all.
Pritzker ignores the signs
Pritzker ignores the signs
Full-day kindergarten mandate hits governor’s desk, but costs remain unknown
Full-day kindergarten mandate hits governor’s desk, but costs remain unknown
Illinois may soon require all public school districts to front the costs of a full-day kindergarten program starting in 2027. There is no designated financial support from the state. Opponents said it’s not about a lack of desire or need, but the lack of funding.