The tax squeeze: How a progressive tax hurts small businesses

Maria Andrews co-owns Boccardi's Italian Imports with her husband, Joel.

Her niche Italian market has been a hit with locals in Springfield, but margins are tight and the hours are long. Another tax hike would be a huge blow to Maria and her business, and thousands like her across the state. Small businesses like Maria's employ more than 2 million people in Illinois. Under a progressive tax, two-thirds of these businesses would pay higher taxes.

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The 8 trillion that small businesses hold make it seem like they're quite alright.