Kifowit Sworn Into New Term, Focused on Passing a Balanced and Responsible Budget

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, issued the following statement after pledging to continue to serve her community as state representative during Wednesday’s inauguration of the 100th Illinois General Assembly:

“I remain focused on working with both sides to find solutions to the many problems facing Illinois. Passing a fair and responsible budget that meets the needs of our state must be the top priority of Gov. Rauner and the Legislature. Allowing the ongoing budget stalemate to continue will jeopardize the services our seniors, veterans, and most vulnerable residents rely on to survive.

“Gov. Rauner’s refusal to participate in open and transparent budget negotiations is a disappointment. With many of our state’s social service agencies on the brink of collapse, we must act now to prevent irreparable damage. I urge the governor to work with my fellow legislators to enact a balanced and responsible budget. Continuing this gridlock will result in thousands of seniors losing the care they need to live independently, force students out of college before they can obtain a degree, and leave victims of domestic violence without the care they need to escape their abusers.

“I believe budget negotiations should be focused on the issues most affecting residents, with the most prominent being true education funding reform to reduce the reliance on property taxes. I agree with the governor to give homeowners much needed relief.

“I look forward to meeting many residents of you over the next two years at my weekly coffee chats, monthly events, and when I walk door to door. The stories, issues and concerns I hear shape my views as state representative, and I look forward to continuing to bring our area’s voice to Springfield.”