New iPhone launches, but Illinoisans pay nation’s highest taxes to use itNew iPhone launches, but Illinoisans pay nation’s highest taxes to use itApple’s new iPhone launch on Sept. 9 may be a celebration for tech consumers, but it also makes the Illinois taxman smile. Illinois already had the nation’s highest tax rate on cell phone plans before it bumped up even more July 1. Illinoisans already paid the nation’s highest wireless taxes, but then the taxes were pushed even higher July 1 by state leaders. Lawmakers should reconsider wireless taxes that generate short-term revenue but deter long-term growth. With a new iPhone on the way, Illinoisans will again be reminded they pay the nation’s highest price but receive nothing extra in return.