Crespo to Continue to Push for Fiscal Responsibility in New Term

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Fred Crespo, D-Hoffman Estates, issued the following statement Wednesday after being sworn in to a new term in the Illinois House of Representatives:

“As Illinois faces serious challenges, I am honored by the opportunity to represent our communities in Springfield, and push for common-sense reforms that not only make Illinois a more competitive place, but also raising the standard of living for middle-class families in our area.

“First and foremost, we need serious action to enact a comprehensive balanced budget. As Illinois has staggered through 19 months of stopgap spending plans and court orders, countless social service providers have closed, and businesses and families are leaving in droves. This is no time for political posturing or extreme demands, it’s time for compromise. I’ve called on the governor to immediately resume bipartisan budget working groups, and stand ready to negotiate a full-year budget as soon as the governor and his allies are ready to return to the table.

“I believe we can all agree that Illinois also needs to take steps to improve the business climate, but I refuse to believe the only way to do so is by stripping away protections for workers injured through no fault of their own, silencing working families and cutting middle-class wages. Instead, we should focus on reforming the business tax code to reduce the burden on small and medium-sized employers. We should reinstate tax credits for businesses that create new jobs, hire engineers and other skilled workers. And we should invest in our middle-class families by expanding tax credits that help working families keep more of their hard-earned dollars, and investing in our local schools.

“My top priority as state representative will always be to put the needs and concerns of our community first. I will continue to be open and accessible to all constituents, and I encourage all local residents to reach out to my office for help with state programs or to give feedback on important legislative issues to help our state prosper.”

Crespo represents the 44th District, which includes portions of Bartlett, Elgin, Hanover Park, Hoffman Estates, Schaumburg and Streamwood.