McLean County Times

Illinois State Sen. Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) was frustrated after Democrat lawmakers failed to negotiate with Republicans to come up with permanent tax relief instead what he described as temporary "election-year gimmicks."

Rose expressed his opinion during an April 7 News Conference at the Illinois Capitol Building. 

"On all counts, our plan is far superior to what's been released by either the House Democrats or Senate Democrats," Rose said. "The sales tax on gasoline is far more relief to families in this state than their plan and the governor's plan. On property taxes, it provides better relief. Again, it's permanent. It's permanent tax relief for the people of Illinois.'

According to the Illinois General Assembly website, Sen. Don DeWitte (R-St. Charles) filed Senate Bill 4164 which would permanently get rid of sales taxes on food, medical devices, and prescription drugs in the state of Illinois. It was introduced back in February and referred to the Senate Assignments Committee where it's been stagnant. 

Rose filed legislation, known as Senate Bill 4163, to make changes to the state's income tax code to double property tax credits from 5% to 10%. It too remains in the Senate Assignments Committee. 

Another GOP-led bill would permanently increase the exemptions seniors receive on their income tax form to $2,000 a year. Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morries) introduced Senate Bill 4161 in January, but it remains in the Senate Assignments Committee.