Hoffman Passes Critical Funding for Vulnerable and Sick Illinoisans, Education and Road Safety Repairs

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, released the following statement after passing a partial budget that ensures schools will open on time, provides need-based financial aid for college students, keeps road repair workers on the job and funds care for elderly and sick Illinoisans:

“After more than a year without a budget, this partial budget is not a ‘mission accomplished.’ While today’s agreement is a step in the right direction and provides necessary funding for many of our most important state services, we must continue working cooperatively to pass a responsible and comprehensive budget that takes a balanced approach to our state’s finances.

“I supported a stopgap budget to meet very important obligations, including allowing schools in our area to open on time and providing them with a full year of funding. I voted to make sure funds are sent for in-home care for home-bound seniors, breast and cervical cancer screenings for women, assistance for children with disabilities and support services for victims of rape and abuse. The bill also provides full funding for road construction projects which are essential for public safety and which help our economy by allowing businesses to utilize our infrastructure system.

“I will continue traveling to Springfield, participating in working groups and urging the rest of the legislature to prioritize the needs of the middle class and working families across the state. There are plenty of things that we all agree on, and I am committed to continuing discussions and negotiations until a full budget is passed.”

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