SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. LaToya Greenwood, D-East St. Louis, issued the following statement after Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s annual budget address Wednesday:
“Difficult decisions will have to be made during the budget process, but I am committed to passing an on-time, balanced budget that invests in our most critical services while paying down old bills and meeting our obligations. Social services and state agencies are still dealing with the ripple effect of the budget impasse, and we have an obligation to uphold our promise to fund schools and lifesaving services, such as domestic violence shelters and senior care.
“I believe we need to prioritize more investment in education, as well as work to expand job training that can lead to high-wage careers. We also must work to create a smarter criminal justice system that invests in underserved communities.
“Last year we saw what can happen when lawmakers on both sides of the aisle and the governor were able to work together to pass a balanced budget on schedule. I look forward to once again working in good faith to pass a responsible spending plan that reflects our commitment to building a stronger Illinois.”