SCHAUMBURG, IL – In a move that surprised even some members of the supermajority, Illinois legislators unveiled and passed a huge mass transit bill in the middle of the night before the end of veto session, as well as a massive energy bill, both of which impose significant new costs on small and midsize manufacturers and working families. TMA calls on Governor Pritzker to stop these destructive efforts.
The passed bills will lead to higher tolls, a sales tax increase, and a sweep of road funds, placing additional financial strain and burden on Illinois residents and businesses. These measures were unveiled and pushed through in the veto session’s final hours, leaving bill opponents with no opportunity to voice their concerns or notify the public of the proposals’ impact.
Adding to the burden, Illinois legislators also passed legislation to decouple the state from federal tax deductions that would have provided much-needed relief to manufacturers. This move will allow the Illinois government to pocket over $300 million, rather than allowing those funds to support the state’s industrial backbone. TMA members have actively been calling the Governor’s Office in opposition of the move.
“These end of session political games are exactly why it is so difficult for the business community to grow, prosper, and thrive in Illinois,” said TMA Executive Vice President Dennis LaComb. “When lawmakers unveil and pass billion-dollar bills in the middle of the night that raise taxes on working families and sweep funds meant for our roads, it sends a clear message that economic stability and predictability are not the General Assembly’s priorities. Manufacturers, working families, and residents across Illinois are tired of being expected to bail out fiscal mismanagement that would never be acceptable in the business world. Governor Pritzker must veto these horrible bills.”
TMA stands firmly against these legislative actions, which undermine the competitiveness of Illinois manufacturers and increase the cost of living for its residents. TMA urges a return to transparent policymaking that supports, rather than hinders, the state’s economic engine.
About TMA: Founded in 1925, TMA is an independent trade association whose mission is to partner with small and midsize manufacturers to help protect, promote, and grow their businesses through practical products, programs, services, and solutions. TMA has nearly 900 members representing approximately 39,000 manufacturing employees and more than 27 million square feet of manufacturing plant.