Cost of Illinois’ education bureaucracy crowds out classroom spending
Cost of Illinois’ education bureaucracy crowds out classroom spending
More than 9,000 Illinois school district administrators earn more than $100,000 a year. Each of them will collect at least $3 million in pension benefits during retirement.
Doubled gas tax creates losers in Illinois, winners across state lines
Doubled gas tax creates losers in Illinois, winners across state lines
Station owners said Illinois businesses were damaged July 1 when the gasoline tax doubled. Tax increases are keeping Illinois pumps quiet and cooling cigarette sales.
By Brad Weisenstein
How Illinois families can face eviction for crimes they didn’t commit
How Illinois families can face eviction for crimes they didn’t commit
“Crime-free housing” ordinances have clearly gone too far. And Illinoisans shouldn’t feel like unwanted guests in their own homes.
By Austin Berg
Chicago defends title of highest sales tax rate in the nation
Chicago defends title of highest sales tax rate in the nation
Chicago is tied with two other cities for the highest sales tax rates for a major U.S. city, adding another superlative for taxation of residents and visitors.
Illinois one of 11 states that lets departing lawmakers immediately become lobbyists
Illinois one of 11 states that lets departing lawmakers immediately become lobbyists
“Revolving door” laws are intended to stop state lawmakers from getting private jobs after granting political favors. Illinois is one of the few states that does little to curb the practice.
Nearly 40% of education spending consumed by pension costs
Nearly 40% of education spending consumed by pension costs
Growing pension costs for retired educators are quickly crowding the classroom out of Illinois budgets.
New law empowers McHenry County voters to consolidate townships
New law empowers McHenry County voters to consolidate townships
A new law relaxes requirements for McHenry County voters looking to dissolve their townships by referendum, clearing a path toward greater efficiency, less waste and lower property taxes.