Big money funds debate on Illinois graduated income tax vote

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Both sides in the debate over a ballot measure to change Illinois’ income tax system from a flat-rate to a graduated structure have straightforward arguments
Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other proponents call it the “fair tax” because it demands more from those with higher incomes. Those making less than $250,000 a year would pay no more than the current 4.95% flat rate.
Opponents point to the state’s history of political corruption, saying the proposal on the November ballot would loosen constitutional restraints on lawmakers’ spending.
THE PROPOSAL
The ballot question would amend the Illinois Constitution to discard the current income tax system, in which every individual pays the same flat rate, 4.95%, and corporations pay 7%. It would set up brackets, like the federal government and 32 other states. The tax rate would increase with income.
BIG STAKES, BIG MONEY
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