In an effort to fund mass transit, Springfield lawmakers passed legislation yesterday that would increase Chicago regional sales taxes.

The bill raises the sales tax in DuPage, Lake, Kane, McHenry and Will counties by 0.5 percent. It would also increase the real estate transfer tax in Chicago. According to the Daily Herald, the sales tax increase adds 25 cents to a $100 purchase.

Governor Rod Blagojevich will sign the bill, but plans to amend the transit bill by requiring free bus and train rides to senior citizens. If he does that, the bill will have to once again be approved by the General Assembly.

Listed below are the recorded votes of the Illinois General Assembly on this bill. The first chart lists the votes of our State Senators — who voted 30 to 25 to pass the tax increase (you can also download it by clicking HERE). The second chart lists the votes of our State Representatives — who voted 62 to 51 to pass the tax increase (you can also download it by clicking HERE).