SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, issued the following statement Tuesday at the conclusion of General Assembly’s spring legislative session:

“As we emerge from this pandemic, it’s critical that we continue to invest in job creation, education and core services that seniors and our most vulnerable depend on. That’s why I supported a responsible spending plan that recognizes the human and economic costs of this pandemic, while outlining our priorities to ensure that nobody is left behind.

“Leaving Springfield today, I’m encouraged by the tremendous progress our state and community have made in combating the COVID-19 pandemic over the past few months. I am incredibly thankful for the tireless work from health care professionals, community leaders, volunteers and everyone else who has been involved with the vaccine rollout.

“We can never forget the tremendous amount of loss and sacrifice many of us have had personal experience with over the past 18 months. It is impossible to quantify the impact this pandemic has had on our community, but I am hopeful brighter days are ahead of us and that we will work together to build an even stronger Illinois that lifts up all of us.

“While we took needed action to expand rental assistance and help people stay in their homes, there will be similar challenges that will impact families long-term. We must ensure their needs are not dismissed.

“I remain grateful for the continued privilege to serve as a voice for Rockford in Springfield, and as we emerge from this pandemic, I look forward to working with our community on addressing whatever challenges we will face in the coming months.”