With lawmakers clashing in the state capitol over whether or not to raise the state's income tax, we thought it might be helpful to drudge up several pieces we've written in the past year that help explain how Illinois' deficit got so large and what the General Assembly can and should do to get us out of the fiscal mess. If you're just tuning into the debate or feel like you need a refresher course to understand more clearly the play-by-play coverage, here's a PI syllabus:

• "Illinois' Income Tax Rate In Context": Did you know that Illinois' income tax is extremely low by national standards? An FAQ from the summer on the state's tax structure.
• "Can Quinn Convince Lawmakers To Fund Our Future?": We review an illuminating report that shows how Illinois' tax system creates an annual "structural" deficit.
• "Edgar: Illinois Is A Low Tax State": Republicans should spend more time listening to their former party leader.
• "The Democrats Stumble At The Budget Finish Line": Our wrap-up from May of the depressing FY 2011 budget negotiations, which left in place a gaping hole.
• "Welcome To Illinois: Home Of The Deadbeats": Because of the recession and our inefficient tax system, state government has not been able to pay its bills for months.
• "The Responsible Budget Coalition Turns One": A major statewide coalition is still fighting hard for a sustainable state budget solution.

The RBC, mentioned above, is also urging its allies to contact legislators now. You can find that information here.