State Representative Bill Mitchell made a stop this morning at Clinton's Shell station to introduce a new piece of legislation.
In light of the record gas prices and summer travel season on the horizon, Rep. Mitchell is proposing legislation that will provide gas sales tax relief for Illinois motorists. The statewide average price of gas is $4.17 per gallon, more than double what it was in 2009. Mitchell says this is leading to windfall tax receipts for the State.
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The State of Illinois charges 19-cents per gallon of gasoline for the Motor Fuel Tax. Mitchell says in FY12, the State will collect an estimated $1.33 billion in revenue from its Motor Fuel Tax. Illinois is one of only seven states that impose a general sales tax on motor fuel, and it is higher than most at 6.25%.
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Representative Adam Brown is co-sponsoring the legislation. He feels the state needs to be more responsible and stop over-taxing and over-spending the people of the state. He believes this legislation is a good way for consumers to save money in tough times.
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The bill would not affect the 1.25% of the sales tax that goes to local governments, which would continue to be imposed on gase above $2.50 per gallon. According to estimates, the proposed legislation would provide nearly $225 million in tax relief to Illinois motorists.
Rep. Mitchell is launching a petition drive in support of the bill. Copies are available the Clinton Shell Station or additional copies can be obtained by calling his district office at 217-876-1968 or by visiting mitchell-b.ilhousgop.org.
