SPRINGFIELD – In response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget address today, State Senator Mike Porfirio (D-Lyons Township) issued the following statement:

“I’m excited to see that Governor Pritzker has provided a budget proposal that will continue to improve the fiscal stability of the state and is an excellent starting point for future negotiations.

“I am eager to begin work with my colleagues and the governor to ensure proper access to resources and services are provided to the communities who need them. It is vital that we ensure veterans have access to high-quality benefits and healthcare facilities, middle class and working families have channels of support to battle the rising costs of inflation and proper funding goes to law enforcement to keep our communities safe. I am pleased to see the proposal today provides a jumping off point for all of these needs. 

“I was also thrilled to see the governor’s Universal Pre-K Initiative. Investing in kids during their preschool years will set them up for success later in life. Young children who attend some form of Pre-K education will be more prepared for reading and math in elementary school, better equipping them for high school, and beyond. Putting money towards Pre-K education is investing in our children’s futures.

“In the next few months, I look forward to negotiating a budget that implements further support systems for veterans, cares for working families and drives our state’s economic development.”

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