By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON – State Sen. Bill Brady, R-Bloomington, said Republicans are open to discussing some kind of temporary tax increase to help end the budget stalemate if it comes with spending cuts and other reforms.

“The taxpayers are willing to – we believe – willing to make a little bit of an investment with their tax dollars if in the long run they get relief by not having to give as much of their tax dollars (in the future) and by getting a better government,” Brady said.

Brady told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin one way might be to raise the income tax, though not the level it was before rolling back to 2011 levels at the start of the year.

“I’m not suggesting I am gong to support a tax increase, I know there are a number of people who would,” Brady said.

Brady said any tax increase would have to be replaced by increased revenue which he believes would come from Democratic concessions such as term limits, redistricting and a property tax freeze.

The Democratic spending plan is more than $3 billion out of balance. The bill hasn’t been sent to Gov. Bruce Rauner.

State senators return to Springfield on June 9. House members are due back Thursday.

Eric Stock can be reached at [email protected].