North Cook News

Jillian Bernas said it is no surprise that an additional 4- to 5 cents-per-gallon gas tax was hidden in this summer’s 583-page state budget.

Bernas, who garnered 44.7 percent of the vote in 2016 against incumbent Rep. Michelle Mussman (D-Schaumburg), is back again, hoping a reform platform pushes her over the top in 2018 and she can claim the District 56 seat.

The district includes Schaumburg, Hanover Park, Roselle and Elk Grove Village.

Speaking to North Cook News, the Republican Bernas recently responded to the ABC News report “Gas Tax Hidden in Illinois Budget," saying career politicians, who have lost touch with the families in their districts, are accustomed to increasing taxes.

“Their only answer is to raise taxes, never considering other possible reductions in spending or reforms,” Bernas said. “In addition to the 32 percent increase in income taxes that state representatives imposed on families this summer, this sales tax will add to a bloated tax burden on families." 

“I know that personally I will pay close to a dollar each time I fill up my tank. Sadly, this is a regressive tax with low-income and middle-class families getting hit the hardest.”

Bernas said the tax increase is considered a sales tax and will go to the general fund instead of paying for important repairs to the transportation infrastructure.

“At a time when priorities should be placed on investing in basic services, this is a blank check for lawmakers to do as they wish,” Bernas said, arguing that legislators look for ways to hide tax increases instead of protecting our families from them. “I want to serve the families of my district in Springfield by working to repeal the 32 percent increase in income taxes along with the hidden tax on gas.”

Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) said it is likely gas taxes will rise again next year, according to the news report, which is all the more reason Bernas believes change must happen today.

“Since it looks like lawmakers want to raise the gas tax again next year, now more than ever we need independent legislators in Springfield to say, 'No,'” Bernas said. “I’m am running to identify ways to balance the budget through reforms instead of on the backs of taxpayers.”

If elected, Bernas said she will be part of a positive fiscal future for Illinois.

“As state representative, I promise to introduce a bill to eliminate the gas tax," she said. "Our working families should not be treated as the private piggy bank for (Michael) Madigan’s politicians."