As a small business owner employing 20 hardworking Illinoisans, I’ve reached the point where I wonder how much longer businesses like mine can survive under the policies coming out of Springfield. Every year, it seems we’re asked to pay more, higher taxes, higher insurance premiums, higher fuel costs, more regulations, and more fees. Meanwhile, many of us are simply trying to make payroll, support our employees, and keep our doors open. Government continues to spend as if taxpayers have unlimited resources, but those of us who sign the front of paychecks know better.

Governor J.B. Pritzker often celebrates new government programs, but those budgets are built on the backs of Illinois taxpayers. Illinois already ranks among the states with the highest combined state and local tax burdens. Instead of reducing that burden and encouraging investment, Springfield continues to expand government while asking families and businesses to shoulder the cost. Every tax increase may seem small in isolation, but together they are pushing employers, retirees, and young families to consider leaving Illinois altogether.

One example that frustrates many Illinois residents is the state’s motor fuel tax. Because of automatic annual increases tied to inflation, the tax continues to rise without lawmakers casting another vote each year. While supporters argue the increases were authorized when the law was enacted, many Illinoisans believe taxpayers deserve a direct voice before paying more at the pump. For small businesses operating service vehicles, delivery trucks, or sales fleets, these increases become another hidden cost that ultimately affects customers and employees alike.

Then there is public safety. Chicago remains one of America’s greatest cities, but its reputation has been damaged by recurring gun violence. During the recent extended Juneteenth holiday weekend, Chicago police reported 47 people shot and 8 killed, including a mass shooting that injured numerous people gathered for a celebration. The 4^th of July weekend was relatively calm for Chicago. ONLY 5 killed and 23 injured according to the Chicago Sun Times. Sadly, these headlines have become all too familiar. Families deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and businesses deserve confidence that employees and customers can work and travel without fear.

It is no coincidence that major employers have chosen to relocate or expand elsewhere. Boeing moved its headquarters. Citadel relocated to Florida. Caterpillar moved to Texas. The Chicago Bears continue pursuing a future outside the city, possibly outside the state. More recently, I heard True Value will be leaving Illinois as well. Every relocation has its own reasons, but many business leaders consistently point to taxes, regulations, and concerns about the state’s long-term business climate as important considerations. Illinois cannot continue losing employers without consequences for jobs, investment, and economic growth.

Many taxpayers are also asking legitimate questions about how state dollars are being spent. Citizens have every right to expect transparency, accountability, and measurable results from their government. Healthy debate over budget priorities, including spending on public services, infrastructure, public safety, and other programs, is an essential part of representative government. Taxpayers deserve clear explanations for how their money is allocated and whether those expenditures serve the long-term interests of Illinois residents. I question the legality of spending on illegal immigrants over Illinois citizens as well.

Illinois has extraordinary strengths: a skilled workforce, world-class transportation, outstanding healthcare, and a central location that should make it one of America’s premier places to live and do business. But unless state leaders focus on reducing the tax burden, restoring confidence in public safety, limiting unnecessary regulation, and creating a more competitive business environment, more families and employers will continue looking beyond our borders.

The people of Illinois are not asking for special treatment. They’re asking for common sense, fiscal responsibility, safer communities, and a government that respects the taxpayers who make everything possible. It’s time for Springfield to stop treating hardworking citizens as an endless source of revenue and start making Illinois a place where businesses can grow, families can prosper, and future generations choose to stay instead of leave.