Kifowit Responds to Governor’s Budget Address, Highlights Priorities Moving Forward

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Continuing her focus on priorities to help local families, State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, responds to the Governor’s Budget Address and highlights the need for a balanced budget, protecting seniors and high-risk individuals and the need to create good-paying jobs to help rebuild our state’s economy.

“As our state continues to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, we need a budget that addresses the needs of our communities such as access to affordable healthcare, high quality education, and vital services for those adversely affected by the pandemic,” said Kifowit. “One of our top priorities must be to ensure the efficient and fair distribution of the vaccine while protecting seniors, veterans and high-risk individuals.”

The Governor’s budget proposal does not add any new taxes to local working families while Illinois’ recovery indicates strong pressure will persist into Fiscal Year 22 to maintain most critical government services, especially for those disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The Governor’s office announced today a balanced budget for the Fiscal Year 2021 with keeping spending flat. That comes from a mix of cutting state spending as well as closing off some corporate loopholes

“Unfortunately, these unprecedented times through the pandemic have taken a toll on Illinois’ budget and we must continue to prioritize the safety of our residents,” said Kifowit. “This is only the beginning of the long process for legislators as we work together to legislate a balanced budget that protects our most vulnerable residents and help families that have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.”