Michelle Smith, Republican state Senate candidate for District 49, lashed out at a pair of tax hike proposals recently, saying passage would “crush the people of Illinois.”
On the cusp of 2016 elections, Illinois House President John Cullerton and Sen. Heather Steans each proposed regulations aimed at increasing taxes. Cullerton introduced the Automotive Mileage Tax (S.B. 3267) while Steans proposed the 30 Cent Per Gallon Tax Hike (S.B. 3279).
Smith reacted strongly to both plans, objecting to the intrusive nature of data collection and the nature of taxing drivers per mile driven.
“Not only would the government be able to track every move you make, but getting to your job would cost you more than anyone in the county,” she said. “Adding the 30 cent tax to each gallon of gas or taxing the citizens of Illinois on their (mileage) has to be one of the most ridiculous ideas I have heard in years.”
Smith recommended finding “common sense solutions” in lieu of added taxes, upholding reform and efficiency as the better path to take.
“If the Democrats are looking to lower the amount of citizens in Illinois, then I believe they will accomplish that goal,” Smith said. “We cannot continue to burden the taxpayers and expect them to continue to call Illinois their home. We must stand together against the Democrats and not allow either one of these tax bills to come forward. I find it outrageous that anyone in Springfield would even consider such tax hikes, and they should be ashamed of themselves. The citizens of Illinois deserve better!”