* I told subscribers about some of this earlier today…
Due to the budget crisis caused by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor JB Pritzker is freezing the implementation of a new set of state business tax credits and calling for a decoupling of Illinois tax law from recently enacted federal business tax changes that would cost Illinois in excess of $500 million.
The expanded state tax credits were authorized in 2019 as part of a series of tax changes contained in PA 101-9 and were scheduled to take effect January 1, 2021. The new, expanded credits are estimated to cost the state an additional $20 million annually.
The proposed decoupling would keep the Illinois income tax framework the same as it was before Congress amended the federal income tax law in March 2020 as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The amendments substantially changed federal tax treatment of net operating losses and excess business losses, automatically causing the same change in Illinois tax treatment. Without decoupling, these federal tax changes could reduce Illinois income tax revenue by more than $500 million.
“My administration recognizes the many challenges facing businesses during this unique time, which is why we are going above and beyond the federal support program by providing hundreds of millions of dollars in support to our small businesses, our best job creators who have been impacted severely by COVID-19,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Unfortunately, COVID also hit our state budget, requiring tough choices about what we can and cannot afford. Right now, we cannot afford to expand tax breaks to businesses that already receive tax breaks. As we recover from the pandemic, we must focus on job creation and balancing our state budget. I am confident in our ability to grow our economy and put our state on firmer fiscal footing.”
The state business incentives in PA 101-9 allow companies that already receive tax credits for relocating or expanding in Illinois through the State’s Enterprise Zone, River’s Edge Redevelopment Zone, Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE), or High Impact Business tax credit programs, to qualify for even more credits based on wages paid to workers for construction associated with that relocation or expansion. Companies would be eligible for up to $20 million in credits across these four programs. These new credits will not be implemented while the state is working to overcome its current fiscal challenges.
The CARES Act repealed the federal tax law provision that limited net operating losses to 80% of taxable income and added another provision allowing a 5-year carryback of losses incurred after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2021. As a result, instead of the previous practice of limiting immediate deductibility and permitting deduction of such business losses gradually over a period of years using loss carryforwards, taxpayers are permitted to deduct such business losses immediately in tax year 2020. The decoupling will affect the tax treatment of such losses for owners of pass-through entities such as partnerships and limited liability companies.
The CARES Act also deferred until 2021 the federal tax law provision limiting the immediate deductibility of excess business losses for noncorporate taxpayers. Decoupling will reinstitute the previous limits.
The Governor said the two actions were necessary given Illinois’ current fiscal challenges and are part of the Pritzker Administration’s ongoing budget review. In December, the Governor announced $700 million in spending reductions for fiscal year 2021 that included a hiring freeze, grant reductions and operational savings. Today’s announcement will get the state another step closer to balancing the budget.
“The recently announced budget cuts along with these new roll backs of corporate tax breaks are just the first steps in this budget process. More will be necessary. We will need to scrutinize and potentially roll back other corporate tax breaks – including those that have been on the books for many years. We hope to hear from members of the General Assembly on both sides of the aisle about their best ideas for progress in this regard.”
*** UPDATE *** Center Square…
National Federation of Independent Business Illinois State Director Mark Grant said from what he’s hearing the change the governor characterized as “technical” would have consequences for some small businesses in Illinois hit the hardest by the pandemic and the government’s restrictions to slow the spread of the disease.
“It just takes away an avenue for our small businesses, sole proprietors, to be able to recover from this incredible economic damage that’s been done to them over the last year,” Grant said. “It takes away avenue the federal government thought was a good idea, and would help our small businesses recover, and this would take away that ability to help with that.”
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* Background is here if you need it…
Lodge 7 members,
As your President, I showed a lapse in judgement yesterday during an interview. For that I am sorry. I brought negative attention to our Lodge, the FOP family and law enforcement in general.
I was in no way condoning the violence in DC yesterday. My statements were poorly worded. I certainly would never justify any attacks on law enforcement. After seeing more video and the full aftermath, my comments would have been different.
I ask that you consider the totality of my comments yesterday. What is almost totally overlooked was the fact I said the President needs to accept responsibility for yesterday’s events and that he should formally concede the race to put everything to bed once and for all.
Lastly, I commit to doing better each day. I will never be too big to admit when I am wrong. Stay safe and healthy.
John J. Catanzara Jr.
President
FOP Lodge 7 Chicago
*** UPDATE *** Ouch…
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* The House has decreed that it will not allow reporters on the floor of the 40,000 square foot BOS Center because of public health and security concerns. When I’ve objected, I’ve been asked why I wanted to be on the floor if I was going to have to remain at least six feet away from everyone else anyway.
But adding a relative handful of reporters to a huge hall like that shouldn’t significantly increase viral load. House press credentials are not easily available, so the security concerns are unfounded and even insulting. And folks who are wearing masks are allowed to be closer together than six feet, as should be abundantly clear from these photos taken during the May special session…
* And, again, look at all the empty space behind the members in that 40,000 square foot hall…
* I’ve been tested for COVID-19 and won’t be venturing forth until the results come back and would be happy to provide testing documentation. I never go anywhere in public without wearing a mask, I don’t go to indoor restaurants and bars and nobody comes into my house without wearing a mask.
I’m more than willing to take what will hopefully be a relatively moderate risk to do my job, and most other reporters I know agree. We’re essential workers who do necessary work. And the next several days could be the most momentous in Illinois government since I do not know when.
Let us in.
*** UPDATE *** Earlier today…
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* Chicago Tribune 2020 endorsement…
Still, first-time candidate Mary Miller of Oakland, a conservative Republican who manages a farm with her husband, Illinois Rep. Chris Miller, would be a good fit for this Downstate district. She supports regulatory reforms and trade to spur economic growth and knows that unless her district creates more jobs, it will see even more people leave.
Yesterday…
From a statement given to me by Will Nesbitt, Rep. Miller’s Northern Regional Director…
Congresswoman Miller’s comments are unfortunate and serious. They do not belong in our political discourse and they do not represent my beliefs and values. And for that reason, I resigned effective January 6.
US Rep. Seth Moulton talked about what it was like when members fled the House floor ahead of the violent mob yesterday and huddled together in a secure location…
I also saw a small group of Republicans, of course the most conservative Trump allies, proudly refusing to wear masks even in this incredibly crowded room. We were brought there for our safety by the Capitol Police, but these colleagues were imperiling our safety by refusing to wear their masks. I took out my phone to snap a picture of them and suddenly, one of them, this new freshman from Illinois, verbally assaulted me, got right in my face. It’s interesting that she was suddenly afraid of being outed for her hypocrisy.
* Chicago Tribune 2020 endorsement…
Voters statewide know Republican Rep. Mike Bost of Murphysboro as the member of the Illinois House who railed against the Democratic stranglehold on the legislative process in a moment of frustration on the floor. Papers flew. We can relate. In Washington, Bost has found a niche as an advocate for veterans and farmers and a member of one of our favorite groups, the Problem Solvers, who work across the aisle when most members of the House decline.
Yesterday…
* Chicago Tribune 2020 endorsement…
Republican incumbent Blaine Wilhour of Beecher City is a small businessman who wonders why state government can’t embrace the same sensible budgeting approach that small businesses apply. Stop the irresponsible spending, Wilhour says, and stop relying on taxpayers to bail out the state with measures such as the Democrats’ proposed graduated income tax. It is pitched as a tax on the wealthy, but when the next fiscal crisis rolls around, it’s a fair bet that middle-class taxpayers will be next in line for a rate hike. Democrat Dave Seiler, a history teacher from Effingham, says he would strengthen connections with constituents through weekly town hall forums. We endorse Wilhour.
Yesterday…
When asked to provide specific irregularities, or if he personally believed there was fraud in the 2020 general election, Wilhour said: “I don’t have the evidence to tell you yes or no and I never pretended to.”
* Chicago Tribune 2020 endorsement…
Rep. Chris Miller, R-Oakland, says the scale of corruption in state government is one reason why companies think twice about moving commerce and jobs to Illinois. He wants strong ethics reform, including a ban on lawmakers becoming lobbyists once they leave office, and strengthening the authority of the legislative inspector general’s office. He faces Independent candidate Kody Czerwonka an accountant from Montrose. Miller is endorsed.
Yesterday…
* Chicago Tribune 2020 endorsement…
Rep. Darren Bailey, R-Xenia, causes trouble in Springfield (in a good way) because he doesn’t go with the flow. He challenged Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s stay-home directives in court as executive order overreach. He calls out members of his own party if he believes they’re leading the state in the wrong direction. On taking a legislative pension, which he declined, he says: “I believe that the position of representative and senator are not careers, but should be treated as times of service to our state. It is irresponsible to collect a pension for an elected position while the working-class pensions are in jeopardy.” Right on. Bailey faces Olney business owner Cynthia Given. Voters in this district should send Bailey to the Senate where he can continue to challenge the status quo. He is endorsed.
Yesterday…
“Right on.”
*** UPDATE 1 *** Cynthia Given, the Democratic candidate against Darren Bailey, just reached out to say the Tribune editorial board never contacted her about its endorsement process.
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* Just imagine if the US Armed Forces had taken the same attitude as local police unions the past few months…
No fights or violence? Somebody got shot, for crying out loud. Cops were injured in the supposedly non-violent storming of the United States Capitol that was intended to stop the official certification of a presidential election…
* The legislative lame duck session starts tomorrow, and this week’s insanity will be fresh in everyone’s minds.
As subscribers know, police reform is very high on the agenda. One aspect of the bill would remove discipline and discharge procedures from the collective bargaining process. Officers who deprive people of rights would be subject to individual civil liability. Anonymous complaints against police would be allowed, more types of chokeholds would be banned, officers would be required to intervene to prevent other officers from violating peoples’ rights. Misconduct charges could be filed for knowingly misrepresenting facts in a police report. And a licensing bill is about to pop.
Catanzara just made the proponents’ job a whole lot easier. They should send him flowers or something.
*** UPDATE 1 *** Unlike Catanzara, the Illinois FOP can apparently read the room…
The Illinois Fraternal Order Police (FOP) State Lodge, FOP Labor Council, and FOP Troopers Lodge 41 have issued a statement regarding the storming of the United States Capitol by a mob on Wednesday:
“The members of the mob who tried to undermine the very core of our democracy yesterday are terrorists and should be treated as such. They should be hunted down and prosecuted with the same urgency as all others who have threatened the existence of our free nation. The members of the Fraternal Order of Police pledge to assist in any way we can to bring these individuals to justice and to insure that the loyal, law-abiding citizens we are sworn to protect and serve never have to experience this level of infamy again.”
I have asked the ILFOP for react to Catanzara’s remarks. I’ll let you know if they respond.
*** UPDATE 2 *** The ILFOP responded to my request for a react to Catanzara’s remarks…
This is from State Lodge President Chris Southwood, Labor Council Executive Director Shawn Roselieb and Troopers Lodge President Joe Moon: There is no excuse for what happened yesterday at the Capitol. Period. We don’t agree with anyone who says otherwise.
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* Press release…
Senate GOP Leader-Designate McConchie on violence at U.S. Capitol
“The horrible violence at our nation’s Capitol is a disgrace to all Americans,” said Illinois Senate GOP Leader-Designate Dan McConchie. “This violence does not reflect the United States that generations of Americans have fought so hard to build. I stand with members of all parties in condemning these un-American acts of violence and treachery, and will do my part here in Illinois to repair the devastating divide that has been created in our country.”
* Meanwhile…
Peaceful at last check. But I sure hope the Illinois State Police and the Secretary of State Police have a plan for the upcoming session.
*** UPDATE 1 *** Jordan Abudayyeh…
In light of the violence at our nation’s Capitol, and with protests mounting at other state capitols, Governor Pritzker has ordered the State Police to increase security around Illinois’ state Capitol, as well as the Bank of Springfield center.
The National Guard and State Police are in constant communication with their counterparts around Illinois and in other states to monitor activity and any threats.
The Governor and his administration are closely monitoring the violence in the nation’s Capitol and will make all needed state resources available to our partners.
The governor’s chief of staff has reportedly been in contact with the four legislative leaders’ chiefs of staff as well.
*** UPDATE 2 *** More…
*** UPDATE 3 *** Press release…
Illinois House Republican Leader Jim Durkin (R-Western Springs) released the following statement on the ongoing protests and violence at the United States Capitol:
“The events unfolding at the United States Capitol today, and the inflammatory remarks by members of the Republican Party, are a disgrace to the core values and beliefs of our great nation. These actions do not represent our Republican party, and are against everything we stand for as Americans. I am sickened and deeply saddened by what I have witnessed today. Any public officials who condone these actions have no place in the Republican party or in our democracy.”
*** UPDATE 4 *** Henry Haupt on Secretary of State Police security…
Secretary of State Capitol Police are remaining vigilant to ensure the Capitol Complex is safe and secure. They continue to work with Illinois State Police and other law enforcement entities to make sure the complex and surrounding area remain safe.
*** UPDATE 5 *** Press release…
Illinois Senate President Don Harmon issued the following statement regarding the treacherous acts the country witnessed today in Washington, D.C.:
“I join with colleagues across the aisle and across the country in condemning the actions we have seen in our nation’s capital.
The peaceful transition of power is a hallmark of our great democracy. To disrupt that transition is an affront to the very fabric of the United States of America. The U.S. Capitol has stood strong in the face of attacks by confederates and terrorists. We will survive today’s sad acts to once again be a beacon of hope, change and equality for the world.”
*** UPDATE 6 *** IDCCA…
Americans and the world watched as Trump urged his gangs of supporters to violence. They stormed the United States Capitol in an attempt to stop the certification of the Electoral College and thus the will of the American people. There was no widespread electoral fraud as Trump’s own Departments of Justice and Homeland Security have confirmed. President Kristina Zahorik of the Illinois Democratic County Chairs’ Association (IDCCA) released the following statement:
“This is an attack on our democracy. It is un-American. The actions of these riotous gangs are shameful, as is Trump’s silence on ending it. Trump and those attempting to stop the will of the American people must be held accountable. These actions, encouraged by Donald Trump, are nothing less than treasonous. This is an attempt at a coup d’etat, plain and simple. Republicans who have supported Donald Trump’s actions leading up today and their silence while our nation’s Capital is under siege are complicit. I look forward to the return of law and order, as well as the Electoral College votes being certified declaring rightfully Joe Biden President.”
*** UPDATE 7 *** Never thought I’d see something like this from the NAM…
*** UPDATE 8 *** Press release…
Attorney General Kwame Raoul today released the following statement condemning mob violence in and around the U.S. Capitol.
“I will always support the right of the people to express their opinions through peaceful protest, as guaranteed by the First Amendment, but let us be clear: what we have witnessed today at the U.S. Capitol is not peaceful, it is not constitutionally-protected, and it is not a ‘protest.’ This violence is a criminal attack on our democracy.
“The individuals who engaged in such criminal acts should not only be cleared from the Capitol so that Congress can resume its duties, but should be held fully accountable under the law.
“Regardless of one’s political ideology, we should all recognize as un-American this attack on our republic: the hate and divisiveness symbolized by the Confederate flag and the noose at the Capitol, and the shameful invocation of Adolf Hitler by a member of Illinois’ congressional delegation. From both sides of the aisle, we must unite to condemn what threatens our values, system of government, and the rule of law.”
*** UPDATE 8 *** The harshest one yet…
House Speaker Michael J. Madigan released the following statement Wednesday:
“What we witnessed today was nothing short of a coup at the hands of Donald Trump and his Republican enablers. What should have been a ceremonial event to mark the peaceful transition of power became an appalling and tragic day for our country. I stand with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to condemn these treasonous riots. Let’s be resolved to move past this dark chapter together as one nation.”
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Question of the day
Wednesday, Jan 6, 2021 - Posted by Rich Miller
* I have to leave the office for a bit so I can go get tested before session begins. I’ve never been tested before, and I had a heck of a time this week finding a test in Springfield with a quick turn-around time. The fastest one I could find produces results in 3-4 days (rapid testing should not be used for individuals because of high rates of false negatives). The rest were 5 days and up. I also have to stop by the vet to pick up something for Oscar (he’s fine, but he’s out of his meds).
* The Question: What has been your recent COVID-19 testing experience?
…Adding… I’m back. Easy-peasy. Very fast. And they even said I may have results in 2 days.
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* Whoa…
No relation.
I’ve asked the Illinois Republican Party for comment on this. Any bets on if they’ll respond?
*** UPDATE 1 *** First GOP response…
Still nothing from the ILGOP.
…Adding… The full video from Margot McGowan Staebler is here.
*** UPDATE 2 *** The full Hitler quote…
“In my great educative work I am beginning with the young. We older ones are used up. Yes, we are old already. We are rotten to the marrow. We have no unrestrained instincts left. We are cowardly and sentimental. We are bearing the burden of a humiliating past, and have in our blood the dull recollection of serfdom and servility. But my magnificent youngsters! Are there finer ones anywhere in the world? Look at these young men and boys! What material! With them I can make a new world…. My teaching is hard. Weakness has to be knocked out of them. In my Ordensburgen a youth will grow up before which the world will shrink back. A violently active dominating, intrepid, brutal youth - that is what I am after. Youth must be all those things. It must be indifferent to pain. There must be no weakness or tenderness in it. I want to see once more in its eyes the gleam of pride and independence of the beast of prey. Strong and handsome must my young men be. I will have them fully trained in all physical exercises. I intend to have an athletic youth - that is the first and the chief thing. In this way I shall eradicate the thousands of years of human domestication. Then I shall have in front of me the pure and noble natural material. With that I can create the new order.”
*** UPDATE 3 *** Gov. Pritzker told reporters today that he wanted to address “the unfathomable and disgusting remarks” by Rep. Miller…
Let me be clear. Hitler got nothing right. This reprehensible rhetoric has no place in our politics. Illinois Republicans cannot allow this to stand and must condemn this vile, evil streak in their party. If Representative Miller was the least bit interested in history, she would visit the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center to learn just how wrong Hitler really was.
*** UPDATE 4 *** The ILGOP says it will have something to say “at some point.” While they try to figure out what to do, here’s a GOP state Rep…
*** UPDATE 5 *** Press release…
ILGOP Chairman Tim Schneider released the following statement regarding Congresswoman Mary Miller’s comments referencing Adolph Hitler:
“That language is wrong and disgusting. We urge Congresswoman Miller to apologize.”
*** UPDATE 6 *** SGOP Leader-Designate Dan McConchie…
“These nonsense comments are some of the most ridiculous I’ve ever heard from an elected official. Hitler was the epitome of evil. Period.”
*** UPDATE 7 *** Press release…
The Illinois Legislative Jewish Caucus is releasing the following statement in response to remarks earlier today from U.S. Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL):
“U.S. Congressperson Mary Miller (R-IL) has demonstrated an act of blatant antisemitism and disrespect to the Jewish people and all those who perished at the hands of the Nazis.
“A sitting member of Congress who uses Hitler’s obscene methods for indoctrinating children with racism and fascism as a guidepost, igniting hate and violence, has no place in Congress.
“If Rep. Miller has any respect left for the role of a U.S. Congressperson or any shred of dignity in her, she will do what’s right and resign.”
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* Press release…
With a focus on the future, State Representative Ann Williams (D-Chicago) today announced her candidacy to become the first woman Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives. In anticipation of the upcoming vote for Speaker of the 102nd General Assembly, Williams has been reaching out to colleagues regarding the work to be done to support working families, ensure access to healthcare, protect our environment, address systemic inequities and advance our Democratic priorities.
“I believe I am the right person to lead as we shape the next chapter of the House Democratic Caucus,” said Williams. “Our already significant fiscal challenges and economic disparities have only been amplified due to COVID and the economic fallout. We need an experienced, pragmatic leader who can unify our caucus and build a bridge to the future.”
“I will lead the House Democratic Caucus collaboratively - with integrity, open communication, and respect for the voices of all Illinoisans.”
Williams was first elected in 2010 over the opposition of Chicago machine politicians and built her career as an independent legislator. She currently serves as the Chair of the House Environment and Energy committee. Her priorities have included addressing the climate crisis, ensuring full access to reproductive healthcare, and fighting for equality for all Illinois families. Williams has been a strong advocate for the hospitality industry, which has served as a base for Illinois’ economic growth. An adoptee, Williams earned national recognition for her work to open adoption records, leading to the reunification of thousands of families, including her own.
“Illinois is at a crossroads. Working moms can’t afford childcare. The pandemic has highlighted the racial inequities in our healthcare and justice systems. Our small business community is devastated. Yet, the Illinois House hasn’t met since May. We need a leader that puts the people of Illinois first.”
“Throughout my career, I have been mentored by many trailblazing women. Today, they are lifting me up as I put in my name to become the first woman Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives,” said Williams. “I am ready to lead.”
…Adding… Meanwhile…
Illinois House Minority Leader Jim Durkin, R-Western Springs, is asking the Illinois Secretary of State to appoint a non-partisan provisional parliamentarian to oversee House proceedings when the new legislature is seated.
Proceedings in the House in the 101st General Assembly are managed by House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago. He’s held that role of speaker for all but two years since 1983. Last year, Madigan was implicated in a nine-year bribery scheme involving utility Commonwealth Edison.
While Madigan hasn’t been charged with a crime and maintains he’s done nothing wrong, the revelations ComEd admitted to that it paid $1.3 million in jobs and contracts to Madigan associates in an effort to influence the speaker has led to a loss of majority support among House Democrats poised to vote for the next speaker immediately after the 102nd General Assembly is seated Wednesday, Jan. 13.
In a letter to Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, Durkin said the selection of House Speaker for the 102nd General Assembly “is far from clear.” Some suggest without a clear leader, it could take dozens of ballots to come to a conclusion, taking time away from dealing with other issues the state is facing.
“As Presiding Officer, you have the authority to select individuals to serve as appointed Provisional Officers,” Durkin told White. “One such individual is the Provisional Parliamentarian.”
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* Lynn Sweet…
Control of the Senate is at stake in the Tuesday Georgia runoff elections with Republican contender and Illinois native Sen. Kelly Loeffler having deep, formative ties to downstate Illinois and Chicago.
Loeffler was born in central Illinois, received her undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her MBA from DePaul.
As a grad student and later as an adult in the business world, Loeffler lived in Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast, records show.
After she married Jeffrey Sprecher, the founder and CEO of Intercontinental Exchange Inc., a commodities exchange where Loeffler was an executive, the couple lived in Atlanta in 2008 and also owned high-end condos in the Palmolive Building, 159 E. Walton Place.
* Mark Brown…
As a veteran of Chicago’s political wars, Clem Balanoff has surely seen a little of everything that election campaigns have to offer.
So when Balanoff says, “I’ve never seen anything like this in my life,” that must count for something.
Balanoff was referring to the leave-no-stone-unturned campaign field organizations mounted on behalf of the two Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate in Georgia.
* As of late last night, both Democrats were ahead, prompting a tweet from the governor’s chief of staff that I added Illinois context to…
* Maxwell is also right if the current trend holds…
* And…
*** UPDATE *** Mayor Lightfoot…
The victories in Georgia last night may be 700 miles away, but they will have a major impact for us here in Chicago. This moves us all a crucial step closer to implementing the Biden Harris agenda–from COVID-19 relief and rebuilding our local economies to criminal justice reform and environmental protections. Let no one ever question the importance of investing in, organizing and mobilizing folks in Black, Latinx and Asian communities again. I congratulate Senators-Elect Warnock and Ossoff, and I salute other leaders and organizers on the ground in Georgia, including Stacey Abrams and my friend Mayor Bottoms, for the years of work they have done building to this moment. Democracy prevails
…Adding… Heh…
* Related…
* What’s left to count in Georgia’s Senate runoffs
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