State Rep. Harper Votes to Increase Education Funding

CHICAGO, IL – Illinois State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, voted this week for a constitutional amendment increasing funding for local schools by creating an additional tax on millionaires.

“The condition of education in many Chicago neighborhoods is in a sorry state,” said Harper. “Books are outdated, there are not enough desks to go around, and buildings are falling apart. Ensuring that our children have access to the quality education that will help them pursue their dreams and compete for good jobs is one of the most fundamental ways we can reform Illinois.”

Harper, who represents the majority of the Englewood neighborhood in Chicago, is a vehement advocate for an increase in education funding. On Wednesday, she voted in support of House Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 26, which would have taken a step toward the creation of a dedicated source of revenue to public schools across the state by authorizing a 3 percent surcharge on incomes greater than $1 million per year. Despite an advisory question on the 2014 ballot showing overwhelming support for this measure across the state, Republican Governor Bruce Rauner and his allies blocked passage of the amendment.

“This measure would have ensured that the wealthiest people in our state – the people who can afford it – pay their fair share, to help improve education in communities where families are struggling,” said Harper. “I am frustrated and disappointed by politicians who talk about reform but are really only interested in protecting the very wealthy. I expected better, and the people of Illinois deserve better.”