State Representative Kevin Schmidt raised concerns on May 7 about Governor JB Pritzker’s proposal to keep the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) share rate flat at 6.23% for fiscal year 2027. Schmidt said this move could shift the financial burden onto local taxpayers and force communities to make difficult decisions about services.
The LGDF is a revenue sharing policy established in 1969 that allocates a percentage of state income taxes for essential programs such as police departments, roads, and infrastructure. The Illinois Municipal League has stated that reducing shared revenue forces local governments to consider raising property taxes or cutting services to make up for the loss.
“Our local municipalities and counties deserve a full 10% share of LGDF revenue to ensure they can keep delivering essential services,” said Schmidt. “Capping the share rate at just 6.23% opens the door for higher property taxes and places even more burdens on families and communities that are already struggling to make ends meet.” He is a cosponsor on HB4294, legislation aimed at increasing LGDF allocations for more stability across Illinois.
Schmidt also addressed public safety issues following the murder of a Chicago police officer by Alphanso Talley, who was wanted on three warrants, was on parole in two separate cases, and had a criminal history dating back to 2017 according to the Chicago Police Department. “Every citizen of Illinois deserves to live free of fear as they live, work, and raise a family. The SAFE-T Act has made communities less safe and criminals even more brazen. We must repeal this law and prioritize the safety of Illinois residents,” said Schmidt.
In addition, Schmidt highlighted community events such as an upcoming tire recycling event at Smithton Community Park on May 9 from 9:00 AM –11:00 AM, along with efforts like mobile DMV sign-ups for basic vehicle services.
Schmidt emphasized support for tax relief policies including “No Tax on Tips and Overtime” which neighboring states have adopted but not yet implemented in Illinois. He urged bipartisan cooperation for measures that would lower costs for families who face some of the highest property tax rates in the nation.
“These high tax rates place an unfair burden on Illinois families who are already contending with rising costs,” said Schmidt.
Schmidt was elected as a Republican representative in 2023 serving Illinois’ 114th House District after replacing LaToya Greenwood, according to AFSA.
