Illinois Lawmakers Face Challenges in Transit Funding Amid Tax Proposals
Illinois House Democrats are pushing for a historic wealth tax aimed at billionaires and new taxes on streaming services and entertainment to generate $1.5 billion for public transit reform. However, Governor JB Pritzker has expressed skepticism about these proposals, labeling the transit funding bill as a non-starter and challenging the viability of using a billionaire tax for this purpose. As the state grapples with a looming fiscal cliff threatening transit agencies, lawmakers are under pressure to navigate funding solutions while facing opposition within their ranks. The fall veto session sees a crowded agenda, with transit leaders urging immediate action to prevent service cuts that could result from budget shortfalls. Proposals including a potential rideshare surcharge and funding cuts are also on the table as debates continue over how to secure necessary transit funding and avoid a financial disaster.
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