A Springfield restaurant owner says the state should live within its means instead of proposing a progressive income tax.

Charlie Parker’s Diner Owner/Operator Mike Murphy says he understands the state needs money but wants to ensure any tax increase goes to fix Illinois’ mounting problems, not fund new programs.

Murphy says he doesn’t trust lawmakers to do the right thing. Murphy also says there would be no incentive to grow in Illinois if the state’s Constitution is changed to allow for progressive tax rates to be determined by law year to year.

Murphy has been in business since 1992. He employs 23 people in Springfield.