Robinson-Backed Budget Focuses on Public Safety Funding, Relief for Families

CHICAGO – Families will see relief through direct payments and tax relief under a budget package supported by state Rep. Lamont J. Robinson, D-Chicago.

“We know that families are struggling, and they’re looking to Springfield for help,” Robinson said. “It was critical that this budget not only supported critical community services – including public safety and education – but also helps families dealing with inflation and the effects of the pandemic.”

Under the Robinson-supported budget package, families can expect to see relief through:

• Direct checks to working families – at $50 per individual and $100 per child (up to three children per family; income limit of $200,000 per individual, $400,000 per joint filer);
• Suspension of the tax on groceries for one year;
• A six month freeze of motor fuel taxes;
• Doubling of property tax rebates (up to $300 per household); and
• A permanent expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit.

The spending plan also includes nearly half a billion in investment toward public safety programs and law enforcement, including $48 million directed toward efforts to stop carjacking and its underlying causes. Additionally, an increase of more than $350 million is being directed toward schools as part of the evidence-based funding formula.

“If we want to effectively address crime in our community, we have to invest in programs that target the root causes of violence,” Robinson said. “This budget package reflects the need to address public safety comprehensively, and of the need to prioritize our youth. Investing more in our classrooms and youth intervention programs will help our children succeed and keep them on a path for success.”

The Robinson-backed budget also included increases in the Child Care Assistance Program, as well as $130 million for legal assistance for those under threat of eviction as a result of COVID-19. An additional $225 million in ARPA funding will be set aside for the Illinois Housing Development Authority to provide grants, forgivable loans and other expenses associated with affordable housing development programs.

For more information, please contact Lamont@LamontJRobinson.com.