SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – In an effort to assist Illinois’ struggling social service organizations, community colleges, and universities during the state’s nearly two-year budget crisis, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg, supported a measure to provide desperately needed funding for these groups.

“Because the governor refuses to propose a responsible budget that supports service providers, university systems and the middle class, I supported a plan that grants immediate relief to them so we can avoid inflicting irreparable damage down the road,” Mussman said. “I find it disheartening that the governor is spending more of his time, energy and money campaigning about his messaging, rather than managing the state’s budget crisis.”

Mussman recently supported House Bill 109 to provide $258 million to social services and an additional $559 million to higher education. The funds would come from two special accounts identified for these respective purposes.

“While my colleagues and I continue to find ways to protect Illinois’ students and most vulnerable residents, I encourage the governor to join us at the table,” said Mussman. “This lifeline proposal does not take the place of a full budget, but it is a crucial step to avoid a calamitous situation that will further place Illinois in dire straits.”