Following strong voter approval, Quinn calls for property tax relief constitutional amendment

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — More than 60% of Illinois voters said they would like to see a property tax relief constitutional amendment. Former governor Pat Quinn told reporters Tuesday that lawmakers should see this overwhelming support as a sign to act.

Quinn is now calling on lawmakers to pass a constitutional amendment question before the 2026 election. The Democrat said a 3% surcharge on millionaires could generate $4.5 billion in property tax relief.

"We have an upside down system in Illinois where are tax breaks and loopholes for millionaires and higher property tax bills for everyday citizens," Quinn said. "I think the people reacted to that and said enough is enough."

Constitutional amendments require support from 70 members of the House and 35 senators. Lawmakers would need to pass the constitutional amendment by May 3, 2026 in order for the question to appear on the general election ballot that year.

"The people of Illinois have spoken in a language that every public official in the state should understand," Quinn said. "It's time for a constitutional amendment mandating relief from unfair and back-breaking property taxes."

Recent data show Illinois has over 77,300 millionaires who declare more than $1 million in net income on their annual income tax returns.