We've covered the recent developments surrounding two efforts to replace Illinois' flat income tax rate with a more progressive system: SB 2288, sponsored by Sens. James Meeks (D-Calument City) and John Cullerton (D-Chicago), and HJCRA 42, sponsored by Rep. Mike Smith (D-Canton). But there's another related bill that saw some movement today: SJCRA 92, sponsored by Sen. Michael Frerichs (D-Champaign).
If approved, the measure would allow voters to amend the state constitution to allow for a graduated income tax. The bill doesn't propose a specific rate structure; presumably, if the voters laid the groundwork for such a change, the new rate system would be debated via separate legislation.
The Tribune is reporting that a Senate committee approved the bill today, thereby sending it to the Senate floor:
The Senate Executive Committee voted 7-5 to send the proposed constitutional amendment to the full Senate.
Sen. Kwame Raoul (D-Chicago) called the flat tax---which is 3 percent for individuals---unfair and regressive. He maintained putting the measure before voters would allow debate on potential changes in the state tax strucuture.
However, in order to put the question on the ballot in November, three-fifths of both chambers in the General Assembly would have to approve the legislation by May 4.
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