Illinois State Representative Chris Miller released a newsletter on Mar. 10 addressing several topics including state tax rates, education funding, and proposed legislation affecting businesses.
Miller said Illinois has the highest tax rates in the country, referencing a recent survey that includes both state and local taxes as well as annual tax rates for median households. He noted that these rates are “53% higher than the national average” and urged that “WE CAN DO BETTER.” Miller included a link to further information about Illinois’ combined state and local taxes.
The newsletter also discussed education funding, stating that more than half of Illinois voters support opting into a federal program allowing donors to help students access additional academic resources. According to Miller, “More than half of the states in the country have already committed to opting into the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Program, and Illinois has until January 1 to do the same.” He explained that students could use scholarship funds for tutoring, educational materials, exam fees, or dual enrollment courses.
Miller criticized recent legislative proposals such as House Bill 5112—the ‘Carryout Bag Reduction Act’—which would require businesses to charge ten cents per carryout bag starting in 2027. He questioned who would ultimately pay for this fee and challenged lawmakers to find better solutions for state issues.
The newsletter also highlighted an opinion piece by Chicago Pastor Corey Brooks advocating for principles like faith, family, agency, ownership, discipline, safety, and accountability over reliance on political parties. Additionally, Miller shared information about St. Patrick’s Day traditions originating in America and provided resources for constituents regarding district boundaries and office contact details.
Miller was elected as a Republican representative to the Illinois State House in 2023 for the state’s 101st House District after replacing Reggie Phillips according to available records.
