West Backs Spending Plan Focused on COVID-19 Crisis, Health Care Priorities

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, issued the following statement Sunday at the conclusion of this spring’s session:

“As we continue to grapple with the challenges posed by COVID-19, I want to thank the nurses, doctors and first responders who battle for us every single day. They put their health and safety on the line for us, and it’s important as a state that we have their back by providing them the equipment and resources they need.

“That’s why I backed a balanced state spending plan (Senate Bill 264) that responsibly prioritizes critical services needed by our responders, while also investing more in Medicaid, unemployment, public health care and other areas that are impacted by this pandemic.

“The budget I supported maintains our commitment for education funding, and ensures we handle our pension obligations while also increasing dollars for senior care, domestic violence shelters and homeless prevention. Over $400 million in new funding will go toward COVID-19 testing and other local health services, while state agencies and the governor will have additional flexibility to ensure resources are allocated as effectively as possible in the coming months.

“In addition to the budget, I helped pass homeowner property tax relief (Senate Bill 685) that is designed to immediately suspend late payment penalties and defer tax exemption reapplication requirements for seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities. I also pushed to expand the ability for residents to safely vote (Senate Bill 1863) by mail or through possible ‘curbside’ options, and supported improved protections for workers (Senate Bill 471) that updates our workers’ compensation benefit process and raises certain unemployment benefits.

“There will be challenges and difficult decisions ahead, but I remain committed to working with the people of Rockford to do what I can to help us get through this health and economic crisis together.”