Springfield … After having his legislative redistricting map selected by the state of Ohio for its balanced and non-partisan approach, State Representative Mike Fortner (R-West Chicago) today proposed legislation which would reform and open up the redistricting process in Illinois by using a similar system as being considered in Ohio.

“Ohio had a great idea in trying to reform their redistricting process. By switching to an open source system, they took a highly partisan process and made it more transparent and open to the public,” said Rep. Fortner. “I learned a lot as I balanced the different criteria in competing in the Ohio contest. I hope that Illinois will reform a system where currently the politicians select their voters rather then the people selecting their representatives.” Continue reading »

Democrats Propose Higher Income Taxes and Fund Sweeps for Temporary Budget

Springfield … State Representative Mike Fortner (R-West Chicago) today, voted against Governor Quinn’s 50% income tax increase and a temporary budget which delays the tough decisions on the state’s fiscal problems.

“After six years of the backroom, shady dealings of Governor Blagojevich, the Democrats still proposed and passed a budget that lacks transparency. By making lump sum appropriations instead of identifying each line item, they essentially were able to hide where your tax dollars are being spent,” said Rep. Fortner. “In addition, fund sweeps does a disservice to the people who paid fees for a specific purpose – such as a hunting license. The Democrats have talked about change and reform and yet their actions don’t follow their words.” Continue reading »