Springfield, IL— State Senator Sally Turner (R-Beason) issued the following statement in response to the Governor’s proposed budget from his Budget Address:

“This is once again the largest spending plan in state history. Illinois families are already facing high property taxes and a rising cost of living, and this budget does very little to help them.

“While there are some positive components within this budget proposal, like the restoration of diverted funding to downstate road projects and the plan to expand nuclear energy production in the state. However, the road fund restoration wouldn’t be needed if the Governor and his allies hadn’t taken funding meant to improve downstate roads and bridges in order to bail out Chicago’s failing transit system in the first place.

“In addition, higher education funding continues to be presented as increasing, yet in reality, colleges and universities are effectively receiving fewer real dollars than they did just a few years ago under this proposed budget.

“As we move through the budget process, I will continue to advocate for a responsible and sustainable plan that truly supports Central Illinois families.”