A progressive income tax is Illinois’ best shot at solving budget crisis

After many years of struggle, it looks like momentum for progressive tax reform in Illinois is picking up. Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker, who’s mounting a strong campaign, has backed a constitutional amendment to allow a progressive income tax, under which rates would be higher for those with higher incomes. Democratic legislative leaders, long hesitant on this issue, are recognizing the necessity of the change.

The Center for Tax and Budget Accountability's recent report details how a progressive income tax could be structured to reduce taxes for 98 percent of state residents – everyone earning less than $300,000 a year – and still raise an additional $2 billion a year.