Ness Backs “No Budget, No Pay” as First Legislative Action

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Following through on her commitment to hold politicians accountable, state Rep. Suzanne Ness, D-Crystal Lake, is sponsoring an initiative to halt lawmaker pay if no budget is passed.  

“Many communities across the state are still feeling the devastating impact of the budget impasse and subsequent fiscal crisis,” said Ness. “If lawmakers cannot work together to pass a balanced budget to fund the important programs Illinoisans rely on, we must be held accountable, and if no budget is passed we should not be paid.”

Advocating for increased transparency and fiscal accountability in government, the first legislative measure Ness is backing is House Bill 178. If signed into law, this legislation would freeze funding for legislator salaries if the General Assembly does not pass a balanced budget.

“My top priority is fighting for fiscal responsibility, lifting up middle-class families and providing much-needed COVID-19 relief to residents and businesses,” continued Ness. “This legislation is commonsense. If there is no budget, there should be no pay for lawmakers. I will continue prioritizing taxpayers to get our state back on the right track.”