Rep. Burke Lays Out Goals for New Term Following Inauguration

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Rep. Kelly Burke, D-Evergreen Park., issued this statement following her inauguration to a seventh term as state Representative.

“Serving my community as their voice in Springfield again is an honor. My goal is always to stand for the priorities of my neighbors in the 36th House District and bring about the changes they want.

“In recent years, we have crafted fiscally-responsible budgets that fund public safety, make vital prescriptions more affordable and pay back old bills to save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars in interest. As a result of our smart budgeting approach, major financial institutions have raised our state’s credit rating six times in the past two years.

“Previous budgets have also prioritized small business assistance and job growth. Bridge loans, tax credits, property tax rebates and other steps helped guide countless Illinoisans through challenging economic times. With current inflation levels imposing punishing financial penalties, our coming budgets must continue this aid.

“I, like many of my neighbors, value safe streets very highly. We must continue to crack down on illegal guns, and support our police officers. At the same time, the importance of ensuring they have the tools they need to do their jobs cannot be overstated.

“Recently, we passed the Paid Leave for All Workers Act, which requires employers to provide their employees with a minimum of 40 hours of paid leave per year for any reason. This is a vital step towards ensuring workers get the rights they deserve. It’s impossible to fully prepare for the trials that life brings, such as sudden family illness, and workers shouldn’t be forced to try. I hope to continue similar pro-worker legislation in coming months.

“Finally, I am committed to rebuilding Illinois infrastructure. Our roads, bridges, broadband access and other vital services are lacking in underserved areas across the state. While we have made progress in this area, we haven’t gone nearly far enough. I will fight to continue to fund these projects to bolster our state’s foundation and create good-paying jobs.

“I am looking forward to a productive year continuing to make strides for our community. New policy solutions to the challenges facing our community will ensure a better future.”