This Session State Representative Harry Benton has introduced House Bill 4088, which aims to create a state income tax deduction for any amount of union dues not covered by a federal income tax deduction. If passed, this bill would ensure that all of a taxpayer’s expenditures on union dues would be tax deductible, between federal and state income taxes.

"Union labor is a proud American tradition, and Illinois is a pro-union state," Benton said. "Making it easier for hardworking union professionals to come together in solidarity is the right thing to do."

The proposed legislation underscores Benton’s commitment to supporting working families and union members, a cause that resonates with his own background as a Local 444 Ironworker. By allowing for a state tax deduction on union dues, the bill seeks to alleviate the financial burden on union members and encourage collective bargaining efforts.

State Rep. Benton represents Illinois House District 97, which covers the southeastern half of Oswego, Eastern Kendall County, Plainfield, and Shorewood. Benton is a Local 444 Ironworker. The intensity of his schedule as a state representative means he does ironwork part-time, but he is proud to still work in the field and get his hands dirty.

This keeps him close to the conversation of issues that fellow working families are struggling with. Before becoming a representative, Benton served as a Trustee in the Village of Plainfield. Benton got into politics because he wanted to help people and work on policy, not for the politics itself. Benton believes it is time that Springfield and elected officials work for the people, not the other way around.