Illinois lawmakers passed hundreds of bills in 2017, but enacted no real reforms to boost the state’s economy, rein in the cost of government or provide relief to taxpayers.
We're traveling the state to talk to Illinoisans prone to being overlooked.
“I think there is quite a bit of opportunity still in downstate Illinois. Building relationships has been the No. 1 thing about being here. “When I was in school I interviewed at Northwestern Mutual [in] downtown [Chicago] and that was kind of appealing, but at that point in time I was already forming a business...
“My grandfather moved up here for employment. Wagner Castings, back in the ‘60s, was hiring African-Americans in record numbers. “My dad started his business in 1981. I took over 18 years ago now. “He was a very successful African-American business owner. All my life. “That was a time when money was plentiful. Everybody was working....
The combined burden of municipal and state taxes on alcoholic beverages might make Chicagoans think they’re seeing double.
Heavy losses of Illinoisans to other states have caused the Land of Lincoln to shrink for four consecutive years.
Illinois’ school district debt and unfair government union bargaining laws contribute to the state’s massive property taxes.
The Land of Lincoln is experiencing weak employment growth and a workforce dropout problem.
After a punishing 2017, Illinoisans are in dire need of reform from Springfield.
Some SNAP-dependent households saw their benefits disappear this holiday season.
Reducing barriers to entry for small businesses is a crucial step toward spurring economic growth in Illinois.
The continuing erosion of Illinois’ tax base is the state’s most pressing budget problem.
The holiday season is a time for giving. And, by the time Illinoisans complete their shopping, they’ll have given plenty – to state and local governments.