Are there two sets of rules for paying taxes? 

Sam McCann must think so

CARLINVILLE — On September 16, 2010, one of the most conservative members of the Illinois State Senate introduced what he called a “common-sense” piece of legislation.  Republican Senator, Chris Lauzen introduced Senate Bill 3944 which seeks to ban all individuals from holding public office on a county board if they have not paid their taxes.  In a recent published report of Elgin’s Courier-News[1], Lauzen went on further to say that a “natural amendment to his bill would be to make Illinois legislators ineligible to serve if they…don’t pay their taxes.” 

This type of legislation could raise a red flag or spell trouble for candidates like Sam McCann who are vying to hold public office this election cycle.  Sam McCann’s construction company was delinquent on nearly $100,000 in back taxes over the last several years.  However, McCann did not bother to actually pay the tax liens owed by his business until after he announced his personal run for State Senate.

“The voters need to understand that this is a guy who wants to make important decisions about how their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent,” said Senator Demuzio. “Meanwhile, he apparently doesn’t think his business needs to pay taxes on time like the rest of us.”   

In the published report of the Courier News, Republican Senator Lauzen says, “People are sick and tired of two sets of rules. If regular people have to pay their taxes, why shouldn’t (legislators)?”

“I think the message is very clear,” added Demuzio.  “As families fight to make ends meet, my opponent still wants you to vote for him and forget about the set of rules he created for himself by not paying nearly $100,000 in taxes for his business on time.”

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