Ortiz to Focus on Bringing Resources, Investment Back to Community in Upcoming State Budget Negotiations

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Underscoring his commitment to secure state dollars to support Southwest Side families, state Rep. Aaron Ortiz, D-Chicago, issued the following statement Wednesday after the Governor’s annual Budget Address:

“Here in Illinois, we are committed to putting Illinois taxpayer dollars to work on the things that actually matter to local families: rebuilding roads, funding our classrooms and supporting healthcare services for those in need. In contrast, Washington continues to waste our hard-earned tax dollars by sending ICE into our homes and hoarding congressionally-appropriated childcare and healthcare funding. 

“The work to push back against this federal chaos begins today, as the House and I begin our budget negotiations. The governor has highlighted his budget priorities, and this is a critical first step toward delivering a final plan that upholds the dignity of every Illinoisan – regardless of citizenship.

“My top priority continues to be delivering dollars back to our community and cutting costs across the board. Social services affecting housing, healthcare and employment are feeling the pinch of federal backsliding and growing demand. As the federal government refuses to do its job, the state needs to step up and fill the gap with a responsible and compassionate budget plan. I am committed to doing exactly that.”

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