West Cook News

Rep. Brad Stephens (R-Chicago) is seeking feedback from his constituents regarding economic policies.

"We’ve seen the stats, people are leaving the State of Illinois in large numbers, some because of rising taxes and others because of falling job opportunities," Stephens posted on Facebook. "Do you support House Republican policies that are aimed at increasing job growth and making life affordable for working families? Take the survey today and let your voice be heard." 

He included a link to a survey conducted by the Illinois House Republicans.

The ALEC-Laffer State Economic Outlook Rankings for 2022, which analyzes 15 state policy variables, places Illinois in the bottom six. The ALEC-Laffer State Economic Performance Rankings, which compares states' gross domestic product, absolute domestic migration, and non-farm payroll employment, ranks Illinois 43rd for the years 2010-2020. During that time period, Illinois was 48th in the nation for absolute domestic migration, losing almost one million residents. The report notes that states that spend more and tax more experience slower growth rates than states that spend less and tax less.

An estimated 122,460 people moved out of Illinois in 2021, leading to a total population decline of 113,776, according to Illinois Policy. This loss of residents is the largest on record. “It is noteworthy that Illinois’ economic recovery from the pandemic has lagged the national average, with a worse unemployment rate and many industries not back to pre-pandemic hiring levels," Illinois Policy senior research analyst Bryce Hill said. "Other more affordable and business-friendly states are near or above pre-pandemic employment levels. Americans move where they find the best job opportunities and feel the most security for themselves and their families,” 

In March, WalletHub released a study that found that Illinois has the highest state taxes in the country. Illinoisans pay almost 40% more in taxes each year than the average U.S. household.