SPRINGFIELD – In response to the Senate’s passage of a state budget for Fiscal Year 2025, State Senator Karina Villa (D-West Chicago) released the following statement:
“Our investments must support the needs of our communities, especially working class families and underserved groups who contribute immeasurably to our state. I am pleased to see this budget make crucial investments in housing, education and support services, but we must do more to ensure all communities benefit equitably from the investments our state is making.
“One of the top issues brought to me by constituents is the need for housing stability. I commend the state’s decision to dedicate $25 million to the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Rental Housing Support Program.
“With the end of COVID-era health care resources, more than ever our communities need critical support, especially for those who are uninsured or under-insured. Although this budget includes crucial funds for safety net hospitals and free and charitable clinics, I would have liked to see greater investments in the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors programs.
“This budget does make vital investments in clinics for survivors of sexual abuse. I hope this will provide these individuals with the proper aid to support their physical and emotional well-being.
“It is essential that we invest in the education and futures of our children. The $200 million for after-school and summer youth programs will help thousands of children achieve their full potential, along with an additional $350 million to fulfill our commitment to our K-12 evidence-based funding formula.
“My colleagues and I were determined to pass a budget that reflects the needs of our state while putting communities first. While this budget is a step in the right direction, we must continue to work toward future investments that ensure our communities receive the support they deserve.”
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