Illinois Needs To Make Tough Budget Cuts

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Rep. John D’Amico (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to Governor Pat Quinn’s budget address, given Wednesday (February 22, 2012) to a joint session of the General Assembly. 

“The governor’s budget address is only a template from which we can start the legislative process of crafting a balanced budget for the state of Illinois.  We implemented a new Budgeting For Outcomes procedure last year that will basically start each agency from zero, rather than simply allowing them to ask for more than the previous year.

“I was pleased to hear that the governor’s budget proposal was focused on reducing spending, but I question how he intends to pay for increased line items for capital improvements, education and college financial aid.   There is no doubt that all of these are important priorities, but many taxpayers have been forced to tighten their belts and so should state government.  This is not a time for increases in spending the state cannot afford.

“We must craft a budget that recognizes our fiscal limitations and there will certainly need to be tough cuts to get our fiscal house in order. The budget process will be a very difficult this year, as it was last year, but I believe more spending cuts along with additional budget reforms will put us on the road to financial stability and a balanced budget in years to come.”

For more information, to weigh in on legislation, or for assistance with state programs or services, please call Rep. D’Amico’s full-time constituent service office at (773) 736-0218.