Democratic State Representative Laura Faver Dias has introduced a bill that would impose a new carryout bag tax in Illinois. The proposal would start with a 10-cent fee per bag beginning January 1, 2027, and the tax would increase by five cents each year through 2030. The measure applies to paper, plastic, and reusable bags.
Critics of the proposal argue that such taxes and fees add to the financial burden on families, particularly those with lower incomes in districts like the 114th. “It’s the small taxes and fees that add up, and it especially hurts low-income families in the 114th District,” according to a statement from local officials.
Some lawmakers say recent legislative activity suggests an agenda focused on raising everyday costs for residents. “As more legislation is introduced, it’s becoming clear that Democrats’ agenda for the 2026 session is to make everyday life even more expensive,” said opponents of the bill.
The debate comes as House Republicans continue to advocate for measures aimed at reducing living expenses and government spending. They have filed several bills intended to support working families. Representative Kevin Schmidt co-sponsored HB1383, which seeks to eliminate taxes on tips.
“We must do more to help Illinois residents keep more money in their pockets. I’m focused on lowering the cost of living by supporting legislation that will help alleviate some of the rising costs we are seeing across the state,” said Rep. Schmidt.
Schmidt was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 114th House District in 2023, succeeding LaToya Greenwood.
