Ness Commits to Hard Work Ahead, Responds to Budget Address

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –State Rep. Suzanne Ness, D-Crystal Lake, released the following statement in response to the governor’s budget address:

“Looking back to a year ago, the Governor acknowledged the difference in the vision he had for our State then and the situation we are living in now. The COVID-19 pandemic put those problems into perspective as new obstacles have emerged as a result of the public health crisis we are in. Covid relief and recovery are the first priority, however, I am still committed to finding solutions to these challenges without raising the tax burden on working Illinois families. It is essential that we continue funding services to help mitigate the spread of the virus, such as free testing, vaccinations for all those who want it and assistance to safely reopen schools. As we continue to address the pandemic, it is also vital to offer resources to businesses as they recover from the consequence of the pandemic and to cut down on the backlog of unemployment cases with the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Both of these areas were addressed today. Those that are facing an interruption in their livelihood need quick and accessible assistance to pay for their housing and put food on the table.

“The governor’s address is merely the first step in the lengthy budget negotiation process. I am confident that both Democrat and Republican legislators can come together to negotiate a fair, responsible and balanced budget in order to get Illinois back on track. This is a step in the right direction.”