Kankakee Times

State Representative Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee) joined State Representatives Dan Ugaste (R-Geneva) and Nicole La Ha (R-Lemont) for a press conference addressing Illinois’ urgent need for property tax relief. The event, held yesterday, focused on the increasing property tax bills that have recently impacted families across the Chicagoland area.

“I have received call after call and dozens of emails from constituents who are angry, upset, and scared,” said Rep. Haas. “Families are not able to stay together. Seniors cannot stay in the homes where they raised their families. Young families cannot afford to live in the communities they grew up in. Generational homes are lost.”

Rep. Haas emphasized the disproportionate effect of high property tax rates on minority communities such as Park Forest, which is 70% African American and saw property tax bills as high as 43% of the assessed value. This contrasts with other communities like Winnetka, where rates are around 8.3%.

“How is this fair to our communities?” said Rep. Haas. “Why are the supermajority legislators not advocating for the communities that have already seen a lack of investment and economic growth? We should be doing everything we can to ensure ALL Illinoisans have the opportunity to work hard, raise a family, even open a business, and be able to afford to do so.”

To watch Rep. Haas’ full remarks at the press conference, please click here.

For more information about Representative Haas, visit RepHaas.com.

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