East Central Reporter

Governor J.B. Pritzker recently met with a Springfield business owner to discuss what he called “Trump’s Tax on Working Families.” The meeting drew criticism from opponents who argue that the governor is using former President Donald Trump as a scapegoat for economic challenges in Illinois.

Critics point to recent legislation, such as Senate Bill 1976, which they describe as adding more regulations and costs for small businesses in the state. An Illinois small business group has warned about negative consequences associated with this bill, which currently awaits action from the governor.

Another measure, Senate Bill 328, has also come under fire. Opponents say it could harm economic development by making it easier for trial lawyers to pursue legal action against businesses. They argue that these policies make Illinois less attractive for job creation and encourage companies to relocate to states with fewer regulations and lower taxes.

“Illinois is already one of the most regulated states in the country, and Pritzker continues to enact legislation that slaps business owners with more mandates and less freedom,” said critics of the governor’s approach. “Illinois policies supported by Pritzker and progressive Democrats have business owners in shackles with no opportunity to thrive. Businesses are fleeing from Illinois to find a permanent home with less taxes, less mandates, and more opportunity.”

Supporters of former President Trump say his administration provided significant tax relief through what they call the ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ benefiting taxpayers and small-business owners nationwide. “The truth is, President Trump has given taxpayers and small-business owners the biggest tax reductions by signing the ‘Big Beautiful Bill.’ Pritzker can blame President Trump like he usually does, but under Republican leadership, businesses in every state will benefit from strong, commonsense policies that build economic growth. Pritzker can learn from President Trump’s policies and turn things around in Illinois, but he must accept the fact that progressive policies simply don’t work and they are hurting businesses across the state.”

Miller, a Republican elected in 2023 to represent Illinois’ 101st House District after Reggie Phillips, is among those voicing concerns about how current state policies impact local businesses.

“The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a Big Beautiful Win for Small Business,” supporters added.