I want to wish you and your family a happy and healthy 2011.

As I look back on the year, I am most proud of our efforts in enacting campaign finance, ethics, pension and other reforms. We worked hard together to accomplish so much. I have represented our District through initiatives and legislation that I introduced, helped craft or supported. I am grateful for your confidence in electing me to continue working on your behalf.

We had many challenges this past year and, together, we will work to create solutions in 2011. Despite the largest recession since the Great Depression, we all share so many blessings in our local area. I feel energized as we move forward. As always, your input helps keep me keep my finger on the pulse of the district.

Recently I asked your opinions on issues which were likely to come before us in the fall veto session. Many of you responded, and I received much support for continuing to ask for your views on the important issues facing our state.

In January, the legislature will face the single most important issue of all, the financial stability of Illinois. As you know, we are in a situation where our state simply cannot pay its bills. In a difficult economy, and with a state deficit of $13 billion, we face hard choices about cutting state programs and raising state revenue. I am committed to continuing to make cuts in our state spending. I do not believe that raising revenue without making cuts is a responsible option for Illinois. However, as we make cuts we must make difficult decisions which will impact state services.

Once again, I would like your thoughts. Simply respond to this e-mail to let me know how you feel. I appreciate your taking the time to send me a response.

WHICH BEST DESCRIBES YOUR POSITION ON REVENUES AND FINANCIAL STABILITY:

1. No way, no how, no new taxes or fees; just make cuts no matter what the impact.
2. Make all the cuts you can without impacting critical services, and in addition, raise revenue.
3. Do not cut any more; we have made enough cuts in the past few years.

IF YOU BELIEVE WE NEED MORE REVENUES, WHICH DO YOU SUPPORT:

1. Expand taxes on cigarettes.
2. Expand revenue by adding a tax on services.
3. Expand revenue by adding a tax on retirement income (monies which were not taxed previously).
4. Raise the state income tax.

IF YOU BELIEVE WE NEED TO RAISE THE STATE INCOME TAX, WHICH DO YOU SUPPORT:

1. A 1% permanent income tax hike.
2. A 2% permanent income tax hike.
3. A 1% temporary income tax hike for a set number of years.
4. A 2% temporary income tax hike for a set number of years.

I welcome all of your thoughts and suggestions; my door is always open. Contact me anytime at 847-433-9100 or Karen@repkarenmay.org with questions or concerns.

Happy New Year!

Warmly,

.

email: karen@repkarenmay.org

phone: (847) 433-9100

web: http://www.repkarenmay.org