Croke Responds to Budget Address, Advocates for Affordable Health Care, Small Business Aid

SPRINGFIELD, Ill – State Rep. Margaret Croke, D-Chicago, responded to Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget proposal on Wednesday, calling for reforms to drive down health care costs and support for small businesses:

“I am pleased that Governor Pritzker has shown he is committed to aiding small businesses, however his proposal is only the first step. The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic downturn requires a variety of solutions be applied. It is absolutely essential that our state’s small businesses receive robust assistance. My legislative agenda reflects that, and I will fight to ensure our budget does as well.

“We must also continue to work for expanded access to health care, both physical and mental. Events of the past year have placed unprecedented stress on many people, and I’m committed to everyone having mental health care options. Continuing to neglect such an important area of health only serves to perpetuate the negative impact the coronavirus has had on many Illinoisans’ state of mind. Our budget must take that into account. I’m looking forward to joining with my colleagues and the governor to craft a balanced budget that addresses these priorities.”