A northern Illinois lawmaker will lead a series of public hearings that could change how the state works with businesses on tax breaks. The first hearing will be held Friday in Chicago.
State Rep. Jack Franks and others have criticized deals that stem from the state's EDGE program. Illinois provides tax breaks through EDGE, but also cuts deals for other perks on occasion with companies that don't pay enough taxes to get credits.
Critics say those special deals are problematic when the companies don't create jobs. They also say there isn't enough transparency surrounding the negotiations. Influential House Speaker Mike Madigan recently added his voice to those saying the state needs to consider changes.
State officials involved with the program say the special deals can help to prevent jobs from leaving the state during a sputtering economy.
Meanwhile, Franks hopes to complete the hearings by May and start working on legislation.
This Chicago Tribune article provides a recent history on the scrutiny being placed on the EDGE program.