Vella Highlights Public Safety, Education Funding in State Budget Plan

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, backed a balanced budget plan Saturday that provides significant funding aimed at improving public safety and job creation efforts, as well as supporting students and teachers in area schools.

“This budget plan is a responsible, balanced approach that prioritizes funding on the issues facing families right now,” Vella said. “I’m encouraged to see more money going toward classrooms, as well as a comprehensive approach to public safety that further supports our first responders. We’ve taken strong, positive steps with our state finances in recent years, and it’s critical that we continue to make smart decisions that respect taxpayers.”

The budget plan Vella supported includes a $350 million increase for school funding, as well as a $100 million investment in first responders. Millions more are being directed toward early childhood education, childcare and higher education grants – including the Monetary Award Program. To provide greater flexibility for future challenges, an additional $138 million is headed toward the state’s rainy-day fund.

Additionally, Vella this spring session passed legislation (House Bill 1236) that encourages local governments to better review contract bidders, and consider whether the bidder operates an apprenticeship program. He also teamed up with state Sen. Steve Stadelman, D-Rockford, to pass a proposal (Senate Bill 1741) that expands rent protections, helping more people receive the security deposit back that they rightfully deserve.

“From directing needed investment toward public safety, to expanding job training opportunities, I’m focused on building a stronger Illinois that gives everyone an opportunity to succeed,” Vella said. “More work remains, and as I return to the area for the summer, I look forward to engaging residents across the community on the issues that matter to them.”

For more information, please contact RepDaveVella@gmail.com.