Video game tax fair to my small business

As a small business owner in Blue Island, I applaud Illinois state Rep. Bob Rita, D-Blue Island, Gov. J.B. Pritzker and state lawmakers for taking a balanced approach to taxes on video gaming.

Rita listened and found a common-sense solution to a problem.

Initially, a proposal was suggested that would have dramatically raised taxes on video gaming at my two Blue Island businesses, Double Play Saloon and Kathy’s Corner. If it would have been enacted, the proposal would have hurt my ability to hire workers, reinvest in my business and contribute to the community.

After sharing our concerns with Rita and Springfield lawmakers, they worked to find common ground.

The result is that rather than the proposed 20% tax increase on video gaming, they adopted a significantly scaled-back three percent increase. At the same time, Rita worked to allow small businesses like mine to increase the number of machines in our business from five to six, which I intend to do at both my small businesses.

I’ll still be able to create jobs, invest in my business and contribute to the community. It means my small businesses won’t lose a significant amount of revenue that have transformed operations in recent years.

At the same time, this solution also helps our state address budgetary concerns and much-needed infrastructure problems. Thank you, Rita, Pritzker and lawmakers. In a time when voters are accustomed to stalemates, bickering and feeling as though our voices aren’t heard, you listened and acted in the best interest of your constituents and the state of Illinois.

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