Rep. Flowers Sworn in for New Term; Says Budget Can’t be Balanced on Backs of Middle-Class Citizens

CHICAGO – State Rep. Mary Flowers, D-Chicago, took the oath of office on Wednesday to represent the 31st District in the Illinois House of Representatives. She issued the following statement:

“I am honored to continue the fight for our community. I promised the people who sent me here that I am going to work hard every day for the issues that truly impact their lives. My term in office is a call to action so I can hold the governor accountable for denying our community the basics.

“Governor Rauner does not want to accept that my community in Chicago has become a desert for jobs, education, safety and healthcare. Too many people are struggling immensely because of the current political climate in our state.  Without a budget, access to many of our critical services have been reduced or entirely eliminated. Colleges all over the state are in complete limbo. Our schools are not fully funded and unemployment in our neighborhoods leave many without hope. It is time to end this budget gridlock that has hurt so many people I represent, and one of my greatest responsibilities is to ensure the budget is not resolved on the backs of middle-class Illinoisans.

“As I take the concerns of my constituents to the House of Representatives, I hope that more citizens become involved in the political process. I encourage people to organize and lead the fight to protect their rights. We are in a critical time in Illinois and the people have to lead the charge to change our condition. The time for talking is done.  We are going to fight until our needs are met.  I am thankful for the support of my constituents.”

To share your ideas for legislation or inquire about help with a state agency, contact Flowers’ constituent service office at 773-471-5200 or email maryeflowers@ilga.gov.