Jones Highlights Ongoing Need in Response to Budget Address

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Thaddeus Jones, D-Dolton, issued the following statement in response to Governor Bruce Rauner’s annual budget address:

“During his speech, Gov. Rauner emphasized the importance of making Illinois more competitive. I believe we cannot do that without a working class that can support their families and invest in local business. Critical services such as basic healthcare, cancer screening and access to higher education are being interrupted as a result of this budget crisis, and that does nothing but hurt our ability to grow our economy.

“Our middle-class families did not create Illinois’ budget problems, but Bruce Rauner and his big business allies continue to argue that they should make the sacrifice to restore financial stability. Thousands of students in our community utilize MAP grants to attend Chicago State University, Governor’s State University and other institutions, and are face with the possibility of not finishing school this semester. Our vulnerable citizens are being forced to choose between paying out of pocket for essential services and putting food on the table for their families. These are the effects of this governor’s insistence on advocating for his extreme reform agenda. It’s irresponsible and out of touch with the well-being of real people that live in my district.

“The governor has to understand that people are suffering from the budget impasse. I will continue to fight against any proposal that makes dangerous cuts to critical services and puts the most vulnerable members of our state at risk, and I will work with anyone who is serious about finding a compromise.”

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