Vermilion County Farm Bureau’s Board of Directors discussed the proposed Progressive Income Tax bill in the Illinois Senate. And Vermilion County Farm Bureau President Dennis Smith has issued the following statement regarding that issue:

Vermilion County Farm Bureau supports legislative policy and action that improves the business climate in Illinois. That is why we continue to support the current flat rate state income tax.

Taxpayers with higher incomes already pay more based on their income level. Changing the constitution to allow variable taxing rates – combined with the state’s continued fiscal uncertainties – will make it easier to target key economic sectors for higher taxes in the future.

This action would again send the message that Illinois does not foster a business-friendly climate, and would continue to hurt small businesses across the state. And we don’t need to add another reason for people to move out of Illinois.

For these reasons, Vermilion County Farm Bureau opposes the progressive income tax in Illinois, and urge all Farm Bureau members to contact their state senator to voice your concerns. Call 888-200-3794 to be connected to your state senator’s district office.