Lisa Hernandez Statement on Governor Pritzker’s Budget Address

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Lisa Hernandez, D-Cicero, issued the following statement after Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s budget address on Wednesday:

“The problems that our neighborhoods face will not be resolved easily. However, I believe that in working together with the governor and my colleagues, we will find creative solutions to ensure that our budget maximizes support for families across the state.

“Last year, we passed a balanced budget that made new strides in health care infrastructure and education funding and helping to keep our students supplied with what they need to succeed. Education must be maintained and expanded. We must aim to continue funding these areas, as the pandemic has left healthcare and education accessibility even more urgent. Immigration assistance and housing must also be looked at with great concern.

“As we look at ways to address our State’s budget shortfall, we need to be very careful that we don’t hurt kids and schools, public or private in the process. They’ve been through too much already. I will remain committed to strengthening our communities with an improved budget for the next fiscal year.

“The aftermath of Donald Trump’s presidency and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic leave much to be done. Difficult decisions are ahead, and I look forward to taking them on.”