Balanced budget honors commitments, invests in state’s future
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago), one of the Senate’s lead budget negotiators, issued the following statement after voting to approve a balanced budget:
“This year’s budget cements our commitment to stability and our willingness and ability to put years of chaos behind us.
“This is a responsible plan that honors our obligations while prioritizing programs that invest in the future of our state, like early childhood education and grants for college-bound students.
“We are also providing much-needed funding for those who serve our most vulnerable citizens. Home health care workers will get a long-awaited raise. The Department of Children and Family Services will receive appropriations to hire new staff, reducing worker caseload and ensuring more attentive oversight for children and families under the agency’s care.
“Overall, the budget sends a clear message: Illinois is not merely surviving; we are thriving.”