Governor Bruce Rauner has spent more than a year promoting his business-friendly, anti-union Turnaround Agenda. Now a group of community organizations and labor unions are offering a counterproposal. They call it the People's Agenda.
Amisha Patel, with the Grassroots Collaborative, says investment in communities would help the Illinois economy grow. "A rising tide lifts all boats. But, the Governor has been draining the pool. It's time to pursue a different path and put people back on the agenda," she said.
The proposal calls for higher taxes on wealthy individuals and the financial industry. It would use that money to fund services like preschool, child care, and the prevention of homelessness. Rauner has often said Illinois cannot afford to be compassionate unless its economy improves.