IL HR0029

Opposes increasing sales taxes on food and prescription drugs, citing regressive tax impacts on low-income families and seniors.

Notes that 160.6 million retail prescription drugs were filled in Illinois in 2015, with prices increasing 12.6% in 2014, and that 8.8% of senior citizens live in poverty.

Highlights that 1.7 million Illinois residents face food insecurity and that low-income families spend 31.4% of their income on food compared to the national average.

Points out that 10 states and the District of Columbia do not levy sales taxes on over-the-counter medicines, and that OTC medicines provide $102 billion in annual savings to the United States.

Asserts that Illinois residents might purchase food and drugs in neighboring states if taxes increase, harming state tax revenue, and notes Illinois ranks third highest for taxes on the poor.