Illinois Policy Institute questions promotion of Tazewell County sales tax

The Illinois Policy Institute sent cease-and-desist letters to school officials in Tazewell County, Illinois, questioning how 17 school districts promoted a proposed 1% countywide school facilities sales tax. The Institute and its partner organization, Illinois Policy, allege that some communications violated state election law by improperly using taxpayer-funded resources to encourage voters to support the referendum. The Institute cited examples, such as the use of a campaign website and logo, which implied that voting for the tax was for students and failing to vote was against students.

The dispute centers on whether state law permits school districts to provide factual information about ballot measures or prohibits them from using public resources to influence voter opinion. If the promotion methods are found to violate state law, it could impact the legality of the tax referendum and local government spending.

Anthony DeLuca, a state representative, is involved in tax reform discussions, while the Illinois Policy Institute monitors high taxes and economic concerns in Illinois.