In response to continued high inflation and increased cost of living, several members of the Senate Republican Caucus came together at a Capitol press conference to advocate for solutions to the economic issues facing Illinoisans. While the previous year did attempt to provide some financial relief, the Majority Party failed to provide a permanent or meaningful impact on families, who are still struggling.
During the press conference, the Senators highlighted several proposed bills that would provide financial relief for families, including,
Senate Bill 1150: Makes the one-year state sales tax exemption for groceries permanent and also exempts prescription drugs and other medical devices from state sales tax beginning July 1, 2023.
Senate Bill 1151/Senate Bill 168: Provides parents with a state tax credit equal to 25% of the federal tax credit for each qualifying child. Qualifying families would receive a tax credit of up to $500 per qualifying child on state income taxes.
Senate Bill 2200: Appropriates $200 million in energy rebates for Ameren customers through an already established program. Qualifying households would receive about $170 in credits toward their power bills.
Senate Bill 1152/Senate Bill 330: Increases Illinois’ income tax exemption for seniors from $1,000 to $2,000.
State Senator Sue Rezin says these solutions present an opportunity to provide much-needed, permanent relief to Illinoisans who often have to choose between buying groceries or paying their utility bills.