CTBA experts are available to provide insight, analysis, and data to the press on a wide range of public policy issues. In addition, CTBA disseminates new research and timely updates on policy developments to the media.
What We Do
- Policy analysis and advocacy
- Empirical research
- Advice and technical assistance
- Strategic leadership in coalitions
- Legislative testimony
- Public education
Illinois is one of the very few states that exempts all retirement income from taxation. It is the state’s most expensive exemption, costing Illinois more than $2 billion in foregone annual revenue. From a tax policy standpoint, this makes no sense—all types of income should be treated equally
Too often, major policy initiatives get framed as "either-or" propositions. This is understandable, given how politically driven the legislative process is. Portraying a potential reform as a stark choice between doing what's right, or supporting an alternative that's wrong, is a great way to instill party discipline and gain political advantage. It also ignores the reality that in most complex policy areas, following best practices usually incorporates more of a "both-and" approach, than the politically favored "either-or." A tax systems should incorporate revenue sources that promote both: tax fairness, by responding to ability to pay; and fiscal stability, by ensuring revenues don't fall too precipitously during poor economic cycles. This isn't a cause of "either-or," but rather "both-and."
Want to know what you would be
Laurence Msall, President of the Civic Federation and Ralph Martire, Executive Director of the bipartisan Center for Tax and Budget Accountability joined Newsviews this week.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday delivered his first budget address in which he
A guest post from Illinois PIRG quotes Ralph Martire on the importance of a rational economic base for revenue in support of a new PIRG report on corporate tax loopholes.
Pritzker stumped on a progressive income tax, and Republicans don’t have the votes to block it. The stars may have finally aligned for a graduated plan in Illinois. An article on the graduated income tax cites CTBA's report, arguing that Illinois' current tax system does not generate enough