Ladisch Douglass Celebrates Balanced, Responsible Budget

WESTMONT, Ill. — Illinois will build on its fiscal stewardship and support communities through critical services such as education and health care thanks to a fiscally and socially responsible budget backed by state Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, D-Elmhurst.

“My top priority as a state representative is to fight for the health, safety, and wellbeing of our communities, and that starts with a balanced budget that supports working families while rebuilding Illinois’ fiscal house. I am proud to have helped pass a budget that does all of this and more,” Ladisch Douglass said. “Through smart financial decisions and responsible spending, we’re investing in our communities while being financially responsible to create a more stable state.”

The Ladisch Douglass-backed fiscal year 2024 budget keeps spending below revenues to help Illinois weather future economic challenges, positioning Illinois to rebuild our fiscal house and save for the future. The budget bolsters the rainy day fund to over $2 billion, pays off short term debt, and goes above and beyond our required pension payment to reduce liabilities and save taxpayers millions.

Ladisch Douglass backed the full funding of the Smart Start initiative, a comprehensive plan to build one of the best early childhood education systems in the nation, as well as new funding for K-12 education and the expansion of MAP grants for those seeking higher education. As an advocate for affordable and accessible health care, Ladisch Douglass also worked to strengthen Illinois commitments to behavioral health, mental health, and addiction treatment.

“As a state, we’ve made tremendous strides in restoring our fiscal health while supporting families and communities in need. We don’t have to choose between being responsible and being compassionate — we can and will be both,” Ladisch Douglass said. “There is still much work to be done, and my commitment to supporting and uplifting our communities is stronger than ever. I will never stop working to build a stronger Illinois for generations to come.”

For more information on Ladisch Douglass’ legislative agenda, please visit www.ilga.gov.

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