Kelly Statement on Preparation for More Affordable Illinois Following Budget Address

CHICAGO — Following the budget address delivered by Governor Pritzker on Wednesday, state Rep. Mike Kelly, D-Chicago, is prepared to begin the long process of securing an affordable budget for Illinoisans that will lower the cost of living and improve safety for families and the community. He released the following statement:

“As we start the process of creating a budget this year,we know that the numbers that people are most concerned about are the ones in their household bills. Times have been tough for a lot of people due to extreme policies that are being passed in Washington. Families have had to worry about being able to buy groceries, or if they will be able to pay their electricity bills or afford healthcare.

“The budget cuts from the federal government that have affected funding for the public safety services that keep our communities safe are truly concerning. We’ve seen taxes shoot up and childcare costs become exorbitant. In Illinois, we’ve fought this by doubling the child tax credit, eliminating the state’s grocery tax, and working to make sure that public safety programs stay funded. We’ve secured increased funding for mental healthcare and worked to provide unhoused shelter beds. But we still have a lot of work to do.

“That’s why in these coming months, I’ll be going line by line in a long, diligent process through our budget, to create a plan that will make living more affordable for families and individuals, and our communities safer and better. The governor’s address was a first step. Now we’re ready to begin the work.”