Spring Session is scheduled to adjourn on May 31, and not much has been done to help Illinois residents who are struggling to get by. However, Democrat lawmakers in Illinois are looking to collect $2.7 billion statewide by expanding sales taxes from mainly goods to many services such as streaming services, rideshares, gym memberships, car repair and more. We cannot continue to raise taxes on working families and businesses. We need serious change in Illinois, but unless we get serious about who we elect to represent our communities, we are going to see more taxes and serious consequences from overspending.
Illinois Democrats Must Take Action on Serious State Issues
The State of Illinois has serious issues such as an immigration crisis, high taxes, and corruption, that need addressed to move our state forward. House Republicans have sound legislation sitting on the table that would fix a lot of state issues, but Democrats refuse to take action on issues that matter the most.
IMMIGRATION
Illinois sanctuary state policies under fire from DHS Secretary, Illinois GOP leaders. U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Springfield last Wednesday, where she blasted Illinois’ sanctuary state policy protecting undocumented immigrants. During her visit, Secretary Noem highlighted how sanctuary policies in Illinois have unleashed violence on American citizens — including rape, sexual assault, murder, and more — while shielding the illegal aliens responsible from facing consequences.
She also rebuked Governor Pritzker for using $1.6 billion in taxpayer money to expand healthcare to those who are here illegally.
Rep. Schmidt co-sponsored legislation (HB 1317) to repeal the Illinois TRUST Act, a misguided law that prohibits law enforcement agencies from working with federal authorities to detain and deport illegal immigrants. This bill would end Illinois’ sanctuary state policy.
TAXES
Threat of up to $6 billion/year in new Illinois taxes. A “tax-and-spend” wish list totaling over $6 billion in new revenue was presented to state lawmakers last week by the Illinois Revenue Alliance, a consortium that includes the Chicago Teachers Union, healthcare unions, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, and other left-leaning special interests.
Democrat lawmakers push new $2.7B sales tax
From Illinois Policy
Democrat lawmakers in Illinois are looking to collect $2.7 billion statewide by expanding sales taxes from mainly goods to many services such as streaming services, rideshares, gym memberships, car repair and more.
Members of the Illinois General Assembly said their Democratic peers are in stealth mode trying to pass the massive tax increase before adjournment May 31. They are claiming the money is needed to solve Chicago’s Regional Transit Authority fiscal crisis…read more.
Illinoisans would find themselves paying sales taxes on:
- Netflix and streaming services.
- Rideshare services such as Über and Lyft.
- Gym memberships.
- Barbershops and beauty salons.
- Car washes and car repair.
- Plumbing, electrical and other repair.
- Lawn care and landscaping.
Illinois cannot continue taxing families and businesses or we will continue to see population loss. We must make it a priority to exercise fiscal responsibility and prioritize the needs of Illinois residents.
Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day (IGOLD)
This week, I joined my colleagues at the Illinois Gun Owner Lobby Day (IGOLD) rally at the Capitol in support of protecting our Second Amendment Rights!
Nominate a Local Business to be Recognized!
Rep. Schmidt encourages individuals or organizations to nominate their favorite business in the 114th District to be recognized as the Business of the Month. Rep. Schmidt will recognize the small business on his social media, website, and with local media.
Individuals can nominate a 114th District business at any time and can call 618-215-1050 with questions. Here is the form to submit! https://repschmidt.com/business-of-the-month/
Thank you to all the concerned citizens who attended my Property Tax Appeal Seminar in O’Fallon! We hope you left with better understanding of the process to challenge your property tax assessment!
Illinois Energy
We need to act now and reform current energy policies to preserve reliable and affordable energy for Illinois residents and businesses.
Public Works Week | May 18-24
Public Works Week shines a spotlight on the people who keep our towns and cities running smoothly. From clean water to safe roads, their essential work often goes unseen. Let’s take a moment to thank those who build and maintain the infrastructure our communities rely on daily.
Illinois Headlines
IL prioritizes $3.2B for immigrants, leaves working families behind: Legislator
Metro-east plant closure will cost 110 jobs as some work moves to Mexico
Speaker removes Democratic Rep. Fred Crespo from committee chairmanship for ‘not communicating’
Illinois considers adopting Biden-era workplace regulations
Illinois mascots legislation stalls, but advocates push for progress
I will continue the work to improve the quality of life for all Illinois residents and will always support legislation that is in the best interest of the people. As we grind into the last days of session, I will keep you updated as bills get passed through the House. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact my district office at 618-215-1050.