Suckers
Get ready to pay more for suckers, Suckers. Illinois lawmakers recently voted to finance a $26 billion public-works program in part by raising taxes on spirits, soft drinks and sweets.
If Gov. Pat Quinn signs on, the increase would amount to about 80 cents per fifth of hard liquor, 13 cents per bottle of wine and 2.6 cents on a six-pack of beer, according to the Chicago Tribune. The amendment to H.B. 255 also removes the current exemption on candy and non-carbonated beverages, adding a tax in Chicago stores of about 8 cents per $1; this, however, does not affect sales of those items in restaurants, where they are already taxed. The liquor-tax hike will apply to drinks sold in bars and restaurants as well as packaged goods.
Also, in another move to reduce the state’s budget, aid to Illinois wineries may be discontinued, the Pantagraph reports.
How much will these tax hikes affect you?
