Officials propose "violence" tax after spike in Chicago murders

CHICAGO, IL (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) One of the most populous counties in the U.S. is considering enforcing a "violence" tax on guns and ammunition.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle is reportedly looking to curb violence and put a dent in a $115 million budget gap in 2013 by employing the tax, reports the Chicago Sun-Times.

While the tax would likely be unpopular among gun lobbyists, county officials hope it will help curb a spike in violence in Chicago.

"If we were to pursue a tax on something like guns and ammo, clearly that wouldn't be popular with the [gun lobby] out there, and it may not generate $50 million, but ... it is consistent with our commitment to pursuing violence reduction in the city and in the county," Kurt Summers, Preckwinkle's chief of staff tells the Sun-Times.

The tax may also help pay in-part for county-run operations like the criminal justice system and public health clinics.

To read more: Chicago Sun-Times

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