Welch Supports Bipartisan, Balanced Budget; Urges Governor to Negotiate in Good Faith

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, released the following statement on his effort to pass a bipartisan, balanced budget:

“For the first time in over two years, Democrats and Republicans worked together and approved a balanced, full-year budget. The plan cuts state spending by nearly $3 billion, while protecting our seniors, supporting our most vulnerable citizens, revitalizing our violence prevention programs and funding our schools, colleges and universities.

“Though more work is required, we should acknowledge the fact members on both sides of the aisle worked together to make this a reality, while Governor Rauner did everything in his power to continue the destruction of our state. This is bi-partisan, balanced budget is a huge step in the right direction and I commend all of my colleagues who valued working to address the challenges facing Illinois over political games.

“House Democrats will continue to work with the governor to find compromise on his agenda items, including freezing property taxes, workers’ compensation reform, procurement reform, government consolidation, and pension reform. We have done our job and worked to address his many demands, so I hope that the governor decides to negotiate in good faith and doesn’t attempt to derail the negotiations once again.”