Although it has been a month since the legislature adjourned, we are still reading letters from individuals who are upset by the tax package approved in the last days of the session.

Nobody likes to pay higher taxes; however, we live in a country where we hold certain societal responsibilities dear. Regardless of whether we view these as rights, needs or conveniences, they all cost money. And our system of government has elected to pay for them through taxation of the citizens of the state.

Aside from easing transportation and providing children with free education, this tax package will provide countless jobs for Illinois residents and will boost the economy of the state. If Illinois is to continue its growth, it must have an infrastructure and services to support an influx of new business and the workforce it brings with it.

The Illinois American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations commends the legislature on its courageous decision to provide funding for those things that we as citizens have indicated we need and want. We hope that everyone who uses these services will remember with their votes the people who made these improvements possible.

Robert Gibson

Illinois AFL-CIO president