Peoria Standard

A petition has been launched in opposition to a proposed $1.9 billion tax increase intended to support the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA). The initiative is supported by State Representative Ryan Spain, who represents Illinois' 73rd House District.

The plan under consideration would introduce several new taxes and fees. These include a 7% tax on streaming services such as Netflix and live events, an increase in the RTA sales tax, taxes on unrealized investment gains, expanded speed camera fines, and an additional $5 charge per ticket at entertainment venues.

Spain voiced his concerns about the proposal, stating: "I stand united with State Representative Spain against a massive $1.9 billion tax hike to bail out the Regional Transportation Authority—no reforms, just pain for working families. This plan slaps a 7% tax on Netflix and live events, hikes RTA sales tax, taxes unrealized investment gains, expands speed camera fines, and adds $5 per ticket at your favorite entertainment venues. We demand real RTA fixes— reform, efficiency, accountability—before one more dime is taken from taxpayers. Sign the petition below to say enough is enough!"

Spain has served as a Republican member of the Illinois State House since 2017 after succeeding David R. Leitch as representative for the state's 73rd House District.