Dear Editor:

The fight for a fair tax in Illinois is gaining momentum, thanks to a groundswell of support from small business owners, people of faith, public servants, service providers, everyday taxpayers and legislators.

They know that cuts of $2 billion this fiscal year and $5 billion the next without further budget cuts to public safety, education and other critical social services are both untenable and unsustainable.

They know that Illinois families cannot afford the higher property taxes that might be necessary to fund Illinois' essential services.

They know that Illinois must meet its fiscal responsibilities, and at the same time be equitable to Illinois' families by creating a fair tax structure where all taxpayers would pay their fair share. The result would put money in the pockets of middle class families to help boost local economies and grow jobs.

They know that a fair tax is what Illinois needs.

State Senator Don Harmon has filed an amendment to the Illinois Constitution which, if passed, would produce the stable and sustainable revenue required to provide critical public and social services in Illinois, including education, public safety and health care.

As part of his proposal, Senator Harmon has introduced a rate schedule to provide a tax break to the 94% of Illinois taxpayers earning under $205,000. This rate schedule proposes 3 tax rates:

• 2.9% on the first $12,500 of one's taxable income
• 4.9% on the next $167,500 of one's income (up to $180,000)
• 6.9% on any income above $180,000. Go to http://www.FairTaxCut.com to calculate your own tax rate.

The Illinois General Assembly is taking a recess until Tuesday, April 29; take the time to contact your state legislators and let them know that Illinois voters deserve the opportunity to vote in November on the proposed Illinois Constitutional Amendment and that a fair tax is right for Illinois families.

Peggy Healy and Hilary Denk, Co-Presidents