South Cook News

Illinois State House District 82 candidate Nicole La Ha Zwiercan stated her belief in "reducing taxes on essentials such as diapers, food, medications, and energy" to help Illinois residents thrive. She made this statement on Facebook on June 6.

"I believe that by reducing taxes on essentials such as diapers, food, medications, and energy, we can help alleviate some of the financial burdens on members of our community," said La Ha Zwiercan, according to Facebook. "I will continue to fight for policies that make it more affordable to live and thrive in Illinois."

In her Facebook post, La Ha shared a news release posted to her website. It focused on her efforts to reduce the financial struggles of Illinois families through legislation. According to La Ha, two of the bills she co-sponsored are House Bill 4307 and House Bill 2336, which aim to reduce taxes on diapers, baby wipes, other foods, and medications. She also expressed support for House Resolution 24, which opposes taxing retirement income.

Screenshot of Rep. Nicole La Ha Zwiercan's June 7 Facebook post. | Rep. Nicole La Ha's Facebook page

House Bill 4307 was originally filed by Representative Paul Jacobs on December 21, 2023. The bill proposes reducing the tax rate on diapers and baby wipes from 6.25% to 1%. The first reading took place on January 16, 2024, and it has since been referred to and re-referred to the rules committee. Five representatives, including La Ha Zwiercan, have signed on as co-sponsors.

House Bill 2336 seeks to exempt certain foods, drugs, and medical appliances currently taxed at 1% from taxes under the Use Tax Act, Service Use Tax Act, Service Occupation Tax Act, and Retailers' Occupation Tax Act. Representative Joe Sosnowski filed this bill on February 14, 2023. It was re-referred to the Rules Committee on March 10, 2023. La Ha Zwiercan signed on as a co-sponsor on May 16.

La Ha Zwiercan was appointed to fill the vacancy in the 82nd State House District following the resignation of John Egofske. She previously served as press secretary for Senate Minority Leader Dan McConchie (R-Hawthorn Woods), bringing an extensive background in public advocacy. A former Mrs. America with active involvement in charitable committees, she received the International Humanitarian Award in 2018 for exceptional community service. Her campaign website highlights her commitment to community service and notes her election to the Village of Homer Glen Board of Trustees in 2021. Throughout her term there, she opposed tax increases and played a significant role in enhancing the quality of life for residents with disabilities.