West Reflects on Budget Address, Looks Ahead to Focusing on Funding Priorities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, issued the following statement Wednesday after Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s annual budget address:

“This year’s budgeting process will require tough decisions, but it must reflect the priorities and values of our state and its people. We saw during the disastrous budget impasse what can happen when we do not properly fund critical services such as Meals on Wheels for seniors, breast cancer screenings for at-risk women and other services that residents depend on every day to survive.

“The priorities of this year’s budget have to reflect the priorities of the Rockford region. This includes investing in education to help every child succeed, looking at ways to provide property tax relief and ensuring that law enforcement has the tools they need to keep our neighborhoods safe.

“Last year Republicans and Democrats were able to set aside differences and work together on a responsible, balanced budget that took significant strides to pay down old bills and make our full pension payments. I am hopeful that we will once again be able to craft an on-time spending plan that moves us forward as we work to build a stronger Illinois.”