House Republican Speaker Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) asked Democrats to take responsibility for their actions during Monday's vote on the graduated income tax constitutional amendment.
"Here’s my advice to House Democrats," Durkin said. "Take responsibility for this mess before you ask more of its citizens."
Durkin said Democrats have been in control for the better part of four decades and have caused many of the problems the state is facing.
"Let’s make no mistake, today’s the result of Illinois Democrats historical, reckless, irresponsible spending," Durkin said. "It’s a foregone conclusion. I am secure with my vote today, but I honestly believe that many of you on the other side of the aisle can’t say the same."
Durkin said it was obvious there was "horse trading" to get enough votes on the Democrat side.
"This is the question that should be on the ballot: Can you trust the Illinois House Democrats with their history on spending more of your money to solve its budget problems?"
Senate Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 1 passed the House on Monday with 73 yes votes and 44 no votes. It will now be on the November 2020 ballot for Illinois voters to decide. Every single Republican voted no on the bill.
Many businesses and individuals have spoken out about their disapproval of a graduated income tax structure. Critics of the structure suggest because rates aren't nailed down in the amendment that it will eventually be a tax on the middle class.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker has been adamant about his preference for a "fair tax" since running for governor last year.
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