Harper Votes to Lift Up Higher Education, Social Services

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In an effort to assist Illinois’ struggling social service organizations, community colleges and universities during the state’s nearly three-year budget crisis, state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, recently passed a measure to provide funding for these groups.

“This lifeline plan does not take the place of a budget, but it does offer needed assistance to Illinois’ universities and social service entities that have suffered for the past two years due to the governor’s refusal to negotiate on a budget,” Harper said. “This would prevent a catastrophe that from happening.”

Harper voted to pass House Bill 109, which uses special state funds that are currently sitting unused to sustain some of the state’s most important services, including senior Meals on Wheels, services for victims of domestic violence, MAP grants, critical services for individuals with developmental disabilities and state colleges and universities. This legislation would appropriate over $800 million to higher education and various social services.

“Forcing people and organizations to bear the brunt of this impasse is appalling and inexcusable,” said Harper. “I urge the governor to sign it the moment it reaches his desk, and work with the entire General Assembly to pass a balanced budget that lifts up the middle class by creating good paying and funding social services.”