Walsh Begins New Term, Focused on Preserving Essential Services

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Larry Walsh, Jr., D-Elwood, issued the following statement after being sworn into the 100^th General Assembly on Wednesday:

“Today marks a new opportunity to address the challenges facing Illinois. Over the past two years, the most vulnerable members of our state have struggled. Resources they rely on have been threatened due to Gov. Rauner’s refusal to compromise.

“I am disappointed in Gov. Rauner’s recent decision to end bipartisan budget working groups. These working groups have previously helped us negotiate seven spending plans. These plans meant our schools, first responders, and critical care providers received the funding they needed to do their jobs. I am urging the governor and members across the aisle to join me in restarting these budget working groups.

“We can work together to pass a fair and responsible budget that preserves essential services, fully funds education, and puts hardworking families first. We can address this budget crisis immediately and create a stronger Illinois.”