Lake County Gazette

Martin McLaughlin, a House Representative from Illinois, expressed criticism regarding state politicians' approach to new tax increases. "State politicians lack common sense in their approach to new tax increases," he said on X.

"Making Sense Common Again in Illinois -is like deodorant . Politicians who need it the most never apply it," said Martin J. Mclaughlin, Illinois State Representative for 52nd District. "Especially Tax and Spendacrats! Make sense common again."

Illinois has enacted several tax changes effective July 1, 2025, as part of its $55 billion budget aimed at addressing a projected deficit and funding public health initiatives. According to MyJournalCourier, the legislation includes increased taxes on gas, diesel, nicotine products, and telecommunications. Additionally, there are higher local sales taxes and new sports betting surcharges. These updates reflect broader efforts to stabilize state finances and expand health initiatives.

As reported by MyJournalCourier, starting July 1, 2025, Illinois increased the gas tax to 48.3 cents per gallon and diesel to 55.8 cents. The telecom excise tax was raised from 7% to 8.65%, and the nicotine tax increased to 45% of the wholesale price. Sports betting is now taxed at 25 cents per wager, which will increase to 35 cents after $20 million is wagered. Furthermore, dozens of cities have raised local sales taxes by between 0.25% and 2%. These measures are expected to generate tens of millions in new revenue.

According to the Tax Foundation, Illinois now has the highest combined state and local sales tax rate in the Midwest at 8.86%, compared to Indiana’s rate of 7% and Wisconsin’s rate of 5.43%. Data from the Illinois Policy Institute indicates that Illinois’ state and local tax burden increased from 11.2% of gross state product in 2019 to 12.9% in 2022—the largest such jump in the Midwest—keeping Illinois’ tax pressure well above its neighbors.

McLaughlin is a Republican representative in the Illinois House from the 52nd District who was first elected in 2020 and re-elected in 2024, according to Wikipedia. He previously served as Barrington Hills Village President and runs a business focused on pension management. His legislative priorities include shrinking government size and implementing fiscal reform.