Pappas Works for COVID-19 Relief, Balanced Budget

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Diane Pappas, D-Itasca, released the following statement upon the adjournment of the Illinois General Assembly session:

“Addressing the urgent needs of our community is my top priority, and, while there is still more work to be done, we took important steps in the right direction. The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on many local businesses and cost countless Illinoisans their jobs. We already know some of the economic impact of this pandemic, but future costs and losses are still unknown. In light of the numerous uncertainties, the General Assembly passed a responsible budget that ensures essential services such as unemployment and job training programs continue, and creates business relief plans that will help put people back to work and safely reinvigorate the Illinois economy.”

“Doctors, nurses and first responders fighting on the front lines have done an excellent job treating people with COVID-19, but this crisis has shed further light on the need for more affordable healthcare for all Illinoisans. I backed legislation that expanded healthcare access, including tele-health and mental health.”

“I worked to provide property tax relief by granting counties the right to suspend late payment penalties and providing for automatic extensions of exemptions. I also pushed for municipalities to promptly receive their full share of income tax collected by the State of Illinois, to help offset their revenue losses and provide vital local community services.”

“My focus is always on acting for the needs and main concerns of our community. Lawmakers are at their best when they are in touch with the people they represent, and now more than ever, I hope the people of our community feel their voices are heard. I encourage anyone with questions or comments to call my office at 224-520-8838 or email RepDPappas@gmail.com.”