Carbondale Reporter

State Senator Terri Bryant has expressed criticism in response to the Governor's proposed budget, which was presented during his budget address.

Senator Bryant highlighted a discrepancy between previous claims of a significant budget deficit and the newly discovered revenue. "For months, we’ve been told that Illinois was facing a budget deficit of more than $3 billion, yet suddenly just in time for his Budget Address, the Governor’s administration found billions in extra revenue to propose the largest spending budget in state history," she stated. She described this move as "political gamesmanship designed to justify more reckless spending."

She further contrasted the state's approach with federal measures, saying, "While the federal government is finally taking steps to rein in spending, Governor Pritzker is doubling down on growing Illinois’ bloated budget." Senator Bryant criticized what she sees as an expansion of government and increased financial pressure on residents instead of making necessary financial decisions.

Additionally, she addressed the Governor's recognition of financial strains due to an immigrant healthcare program. "While I appreciate that the Governor is finally acknowledging the massive financial burden of his illegal immigrant healthcare program and is claiming to seek reductions," she remarked but added skepticism about seeing any substantial changes without reviewing the final budget later this year. She concluded by expressing doubt over promises of fiscal responsibility being realized.