Check out this recent article from the Chicago Tribune (especially the graphic): "Illinois stuck in a 'historic, epic' budget crisis"
At this new level of State debt are there enough, large enough, budget line items that can be cut over the next few years to get Illinois back on track?
What are the socio-economic ramifications of reducing the State budget (Medicaid, Human services, education) vs the outcomes if we do not?
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For starters, I would agree to a tax increase in the form of a sales tax hike on luxury goods, ie. big screen T.V.'s, cars made in 2009 and 2010, cigarettes, alcohol etc. This tax would only effect the poor if they are buying luxury items, which they shouldn't. Each Representative from both houses should take a mandatory 15% pay cut coupled with a 10 year pay freeze. Some of representatives make up to $93,000.00 a year. No one will agree to a tax increase unless Illinois goverment makes serious cuts of their own. Finally, until we are deficit neutral, if the deficit is not reduced by a billion dollars for every year you are a congressman , you should be forbidden from seeking reelection in the next election. Furthermore your first term as a congressman shouls always be served on a voluntary basis, ie. without pay. If you do a good job and the voters decide to keep you around, then you will receive a salary for your subsequent terms.
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