Hernandez Champions Education, Fiscal Responsibility in Spring Legislative Session

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. —  Building on years of historic fiscal progress, state Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, helped pass Illinois’ fifth balanced budget, making critical investments in education, health care, and other essential services.

“Throughout my time in public service, my top priority has always been to support children and families, and that’s true now more than ever. After months of negotiations, we put forth a budget that keeps Illinois on firm fiscal footing while supporting essential services that our families and communities need,” Hernandez said. “In Illinois, we don’t have to choose between fiscal responsibility and compassionate governing. This budget is a moral document that proves we can do both.”

The fiscal year 2024 budget funds education for all ages, including a $350 million investment in the evidence-based funding model for K-12 schools, significant investments in the Smart Start Illinois program for early childhood education, and the expansion of Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants for those seeking higher education. MAP grants are available for students of non-traditional college age and DREAMers.

In concert with the important investments in education, Hernandez passed a bill to create a new revenue stream to support the Illinois DREAM fund. The fund provides scholarships for children of immigrants who want to pursue higher education but face financial hardships because they are not eligible for federal grants when applying to colleges in the U.S. At no additional cost to taxpayers, Hernandez’s House Bill 3233 allows monetary transmitter customers sending money overseas to voluntarily donate to support the Illinois DREAM fund.

“Education has the opportunity to uplift all Illinoisans, leading to greater economic mobility and even better health outcomes. Everyone, regardless of status or circumstance deserves access to education at all levels,” Hernandez said. “I’m proud to have passed a budget and bills to support education so that we can create opportunities for all Illinois students to thrive. Though we’ve made tremendous progress this session, there is still more to be done. I will always work hard to support Illinois families and communities.”