TSD Memphis

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — New athletic shoes could cost 25 cents more in Illinois.

State Rep. Will Davis from the Chicago suburb of Hazel Crest wants the new tax to pay for a youth job preparation program. According to published news reports, the Democratic lawmaker wants to raise about $3 million and most consumers wouldn't notice it. The 25 cents per pair of athletic shoes would go to the state's YouthBuild programs.

Davis says he sees it "as a uniquely creative way of helping youth."

There is opposition to the plan. The Illinois Retail Merchants Association says it will fight the proposal because it creates paperwork for store owners.