Smokers, drivers and many Illinois workers would be asked to pony up more money to balance the state budget under a plan being considered by Gov. Pat Quinn, but the Democratic governor also wants to offer families a back-to-school holiday from the state sales tax.

Quinn stressed tax relief Tuesday as he prepared a budget proposal likely to include politically risky increases in income taxes, cigarette taxes and license plate fees. His newest twist is the idea of lifting the state sales tax for back-to-school shopping.

The Chicago Democrat emphasized his proposal also will include deep cuts as he tries to erase an $11.5 billion budget deficit.

“This is a very bold plan. It’s never been tried before in Illinois,” he told reporters in Chicago before leaving for the capital city. “I want to say to the people of Illinois, we’re going to pay our bills.”

via Illinois Tax Increase: Quinn Weighing Nearly Two-Dollar-A-Pack Cigarette Tax, Sales Tax Holiday.