SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) released the following statement after the Governor’s State of the State and Budget Address:

“Frankly, the address sounded more like a campaign speech than a serious governing plan. It was light on details and heavy on political talking points, which was disappointing. The governor painted a rosy picture of Illinois’ economy and claimed employers love doing business here. If that is the case, why does Illinois continue to lead the nation in out-migration? Why are working families and businesses still leaving our state?

“Facts do not disappear simply because they are ignored. If Illinois’ economy paints such a rosy picture, why the need for another $700 million in tax increases placed in this budget?  Since the governor took office, the state budget has grown by roughly $16 billion. Illinois does not have a revenue problem. It has a spending problem.

“The governor also criticized businesses for nickel-and-diming consumers, yet Illinois has added a steady stream of new fees and taxes on working families, including taxes on cell phones, rental equipment, insurance plans, and a large increase in electric bills.

“I am willing to work with the governor to help improve our jobs climate knowing that is the only way to turn Illinois around. Despite Governor Pritzker’s best efforts, no state or country has ever taxed its way into prosperity. Recognizing that is the only way Illinois will be able to right this ship and become the state we know it can be.”