Illinois property tax system could face review under Martwick measure

SPRINGFIELD — Under a new measure proposed by State Senator Robert Martwick, the property tax system in Illinois would face review by the Department of Revenue.

“Clearly, the property tax system across the entirety of the state of Illinois is in need of reform,” said Martwick (D-Chicago). “This study will help us identify fair and equitable reforms that will give property tax payers across the state a greater sense of certainty about their property tax burden.”

Martwick’s measure would commission the Department of Revenue, in consultation with the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, to conduct a comprehensive study evaluating the entire property tax system in the state. During the study, IDOR would examine whether the existing property tax levy, assessment, appeal and collection process is reasonable and fair, and issue recommendations for improvement.

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Belt advances bill to address financial disparities in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure out of the Senate Executive Committee Wednesday that aims to identify and correct inequities some individuals face when seeking loans, mortgages or other financial services.

“Access to fair lending services, reasonable banking and other financial assistance is fundamental to economic development and stability,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “However, there are many communities across the state that face systemic barriers and disparities that hinder their ability to fully participate in the economy such as running a successful business or owning a home.”

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Aquino stands with SEIU, home care workers in fight for living wage

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Omar Aquino, standing alongside Service Employees International Union members, pushed for a wage increase for home care workers in Illinois at a rally Wednesday.

“When I worked for the Community Care Program, I witnessed firsthand the impact of home care workers on seniors’ ability to live an independent and dignified life,” expressed Aquino to advocates gathered in the Capitol rotunda. “You all provide dignified work—you should earn a dignified pay.”

Aquino joined hundreds of home care workers rallying together to speak on the need to increase wages for home care workers who provide essential personal assistance and health care support to thousands of seniors and people with disabilities across the state.

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Senate Democrats stand against predatory insurance practices

SPRINGFIELD – Senate Democrats advocated for the Healthcare Protection Act to curb predatory insurance practices to ensure adequate access to health care for people in Illinois at a press conference Wednesday.

“The big time insurance companies are going to fight us on this, but we are going to bring the public – the people of Illinois – with us to the negotiating table and get this done,” said State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago). “I am honored to sponsor this bill and will not fold on my commitment to make Illinois a healthier and safer place by ensuring they have access to the best possible care.”

Senate Bill 3739 aims to ban step therapy and prior authorization for crisis mental health care, improve network adequacy and end unchecked rate increases for large group insurance companies.

Read more: Senate Democrats stand against predatory insurance practices