Scherer Begins New Term, Focused on the Needs of Working Families

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Pledging to continue fighting on behalf of middle-class families, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, began a new term Wednesday, with a focus on passing a fair and responsible budget, increasing funding for local schools, and holding the line on taxes.

“The lack of a state budget has put the critical services many of our most vulnerable residents rely on at risk,” Scherer said. “I will continue fighting to pass a fair and responsible budget that fully funds our schools, protects programs like Meals on Wheels for senior citizens, and provides lifesaving breast and cervical cancer screenings for women.”

Scherer is stressing the need for compromise from both sides of the aisle to resolve the state’s budget crisis. She is disappointed in the governor’s recent decision to end bipartisan budget negotiations, which have previously resulted in seven budget bills being agreed to between Gov. Rauner and the legislature.

“We have a responsibility as elected officials to work together in resolving the ongoing budget crisis that has impacted so many in our community,” said Scherer. “I urge the Governor to return to the table and continue bipartisan negotiations, so we can pass a budget that fully meets our state’s obligations.”

Along with passing a state budget, Scherer will continue protecting middle-class and working families against tax increases and support funding for critical services that some of our most vulnerable residents depend on. Scherer has consistently voted against tax increases and supported spending plans that would increase funding for local schools and provide funding for services for elderly residents.

“Too many families are choosing to leave our area and we must do more locally to create economic opportunity,” Scherer said. “At a time when many families are already struggling to make ends meet, the last thing we should consider is raising taxes on those working to build a better life.”

Scherer plans to continue her efforts in fighting for fair funding of schools to ensure all students in the state of Illinois have the proper funding and resources needed for a quality education. Scherer has supported budgets in the past that ensured schools opened on time and increased funding for school districts. Scherer plans to introduce legislation that would make it harder to reduce funding for education by requiring more votes to pass a bill that would cut funding for schools.

“As a retired teacher of more than 30 years, I know how important it is to give our children the resources they need to succeed,” Scherer said. “Students in Central Illinois deserve to have the same opportunities as those living near Chicago.”

Scherer is looking forward to speaking with members of the community, while walking door-to-door and at her monthly events. She also plans on hosting satellite office hours to attend to the needs of those who may not be able to access her main district office. Scherer will also make visits to restaurants and businesses across the area, highlighting the achievements of small businesses and the important work they do to hire local workers and keep our economy churning.

“I look forward to engaging with residents as I walk door to door, host satellite office hours, and visit various business throughout the area, said Scherer. “I want members of the community to know that I care about the issues that affect their lives, and I am accessible when they need me.”

For more information, please contact Scherer’s constituent service office at 217-877-9636 or by email at StateRepSue@gmail.com. Scherer represents the 96^th District, which includes portions of Christian, Macon and Sangamon counties.