Briel Votes to Streamline Government, Protect Critical Services in New Budget

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Amy “Murri” Briel, D-Ottawa, backed a fiscally and socially responsible state budget plan on Saturday making smart cuts to the cost of government and helping Illinois navigate a chaotic situation stemming from Washington.

“We all came into negotiations knowing this was a tough budget year, but my top priority was simple — we cannot balance a budget on the backs of our working families. I’m proud of the protections we are able to continue to maintain without jacking up the cost of living for our Illinois families, seniors, and everyone in between,” said Briel.

Federal threats from the Trump Administration could leave Illinoisans vulnerable to critical service cuts that risk healthcare affordability and accessibility for low- and middle-class families, including spiking premiums and potential Medicaid carve-outs Illinoisans rely on.

Briel voted to pass the new state budget which trimmed government administration costs to reinvest savings into services for Illinoisans that face federal disturbances, including new funding for clinics, safety net hospitals, and community health centers for low- and modest- income families. Plus, Briel voted to create the Budget Reserve for Immediate Disbursements &Government Emergency Bridge Fund, positioning the state to patch potential cuts from Washington.

“I understand the struggles families face, and how hard people in our community work to build a stronger future,” said Briel. “This budget gives communities the tools to move forward and keeps an eye on the vitality and security of Illinois families.”

Briel also voted for a raise in wages for live-in caregivers and direct-support professionals that will protect seniors and those with disabilities to continue treatment plans without disturbance of federal impact. In addition to protecting affordable and accessible healthcare, Briel voted for $300 million in funds to support public schools and after school programs statewide.