From 2005-2019, Illinois revenues totaled just 94% of expenses. The state ran deficits in each of the 15 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Only New Jersey overspent more.
Illinois borrowed $4.2 billion from the federal government to replenish its unemployment trust fund, missed the deadline to repay it and now wants to avoid the interest that is due.
About one-third more people will be on the road this holiday season. For Illinoisans, the gas to get home for the holidays will be pricey.
A report on rapid growth among Cook County’s senior population found nearly 60% spend more than 30% of their income on rent. Experts insist on more county housing options or tactics to lower costs.
"Without changing the current system, we will continue to drive people out of Illinois and stifle economic growth."
Quick relief was promised for select needy families in Chicago, but it now looks like it will be summer before any of the $500-a-month checks are issued. Mayor Lori Lightfoot said the delay is to prevent abuse.
Illinois imposes some of the nation’s highest sales taxes on holiday shoppers, and this year online shopping will no longer offer a break.
Taxing people’s bad habits is a tough way to raise reliable revenue, but Illinois keeps trying to do just that.
Illinois State Police are facing audits showing $2.3 million is missing as lawmakers seek answers about old computers and late firearms IDs. Also, lawsuits and an indictment outline theft and sex harassment claims at the agency managing troopers.
Six months after state lawmakers hastily approved Illinois’ 2022 budget, a hidden discretionary fund has been identified giving Gov. J.B. Pritzker total control over $2 billion in federal COVID-19 aid.
Property taxes are the real thieves attacking the house used in the holiday movie ‘Home Alone.’ The house is available for a one-night stay this holiday, but not all taxes are included.
Kiplinger report finds Illinois’ sales, income and property taxes on middle-income families rank among the highest in the nation, making prospective residents think twice about moving to the state.
Taxpayers pay too much for the rough conditions they find on Illinois roads, according to a report by the Reason Foundation. Bad pavement and too much congestion come with upkeep costs that are among the highest in the U.S.
AAA’s Thanksgiving travel forecast predicts national driving rates will rebound to near pre-pandemic levels this holiday. For Illinoisans visiting family in the coming weeks, that trip will be cheaper if they can fill up out of state.