Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

The Policy Shop: Chicago’s $879 Million Camera Cash-In

The Policy Shop: Chicago’s $879 Million Camera Cash-In

This episode of The Policy Shop is by writer Patrick Andriesen Two Chicago mayors have decried their city’s near-predatory use of traffic tickets. Yet those two Chicago mayors have effectively worked to increase ticket revenue. Beware the next politician promising “relief,” because it likely means even more cash taken from drivers who can ill-afford Chicago’s...

Illinois state gas tax to hit 47 cents July 1

Illinois state gas tax to hit 47 cents July 1

After July 1, Illinois motorists will be averaging $184 more in state gas taxes since Gov. J.B. Pritzker doubled them in 2019. Illinois motorists already pay the second-highest gas taxes in the nation, and inflation adjustments just take them higher.

By Dylan Sharkey

Chicago speed cameras fined motorists over $102M in 2023

Chicago speed cameras fined motorists over $102M in 2023

Chicago speed cameras hit motorists with over $102 million in fines during 2023, and $879 million total since they started flashing a decade ago. The mayor promised to eliminate the automated traffic cams, which issued a ticket every 20 seconds last year.

By Patrick Andriesen

The Policy Shop: Why the Chicago Teachers Union is married to failure

The Policy Shop: Why the Chicago Teachers Union is married to failure

“Imagine community schools It’s easy if you try No academics to restrain us Above us, every other child. “Imagine all the students Livin’ out this lie Ah-hah-ha-ha-ha…” You may say Stacy Davis Gates is a dreamer, but she’s not the only one. The Chicago Teachers Union will make the district use a flawed school model....