Canty Champions Education, Fiscal Responsibility in Spring Legislative Session

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — In her first few months as a legislator, state Rep. Mary Beth Canty, D- Arlington Heights, passed historic legislation addressing education, pay transparency, and more,
while also passing a fiscally and socially responsible budget that uplifts working families across Illinois.

“As we near the end of the spring 2023 legislative session, I am extremely proud of the work my colleagues, staff, and I have accomplished on behalf of our communities and the state of Illinois
as a whole,” Canty said. “From reducing food insecurity to supporting our first responders through their most difficult moments, I will continue to give back to our communities and work in the best interests of all Illinoisans.”

In concert with the fiscal year 2024 budget’s significant investments in evidence-based funding and early childhood education, Canty passed House Bill 2396 to require Illinois schools to offer
full-day kindergarten within the next four years. Research suggests this policy will help close the racial achievement gap and improve academic and social outcomes for children. Canty champions education at all ages, passing a budget that increases university funding and expands the availability of MAP grant funding to help individuals seeking higher education. As an advocate for sound fiscal policy, Canty backed a budget that builds on years of fiscal progress, including previous balanced budgets and eight credit-rating increases, while investing in pension stabilization, workforce development, and much more.

“This year’s balanced budget is both fiscally and socially responsible, putting Illinois on the best fiscal footing in years while investing in critical services like health care, education, vocational development, and more,” Canty said. “There’s no need to choose between financial responsibility and compassionate governing. In Illinois we can do both, and this budget is proof.”

For more information on Canty’s events, legislation, and more, follow her @RepMBC onFacebook and Twitter, and @rep.mbc on Instagram.