Rauner proposes property tax freeze, expanded sales tax

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Bruce Rauner has proposed freezing property taxes for two years and expanding the sales tax base as part of a “taxpayer empowerment” plan.

The Republican proposed that real estate taxes not increase above 2015 levels except for new construction or property under other narrow restrictions. He wants to “modernize” the sales tax to include services such as haircuts or automotive repairs.

Rauner delivered his first State of the State address Wednesday.

The proposal also includes ideas for reforming government. He wants to consolidate some of the state's 7,000 units of local government such as library and park districts.

He proposes constitutional amendments to limit state politicians to 8-year term limits and to reduce pension costs.

And he says workers should be able to decide whether to join a union.