Springfield, IL— State Senator Sally Turner (R-Beason) issued the following statement after Democrat lawmakers passed a nearly $56 billion budget that includes more than $800 million in new taxes, fees, and revenue enhancements:
“Budgets reflect priorities, and despite a record price tag, this budget continues to grow spending while many Illinois families struggle with rising costs and an economy that continues to lag behind much of the nation.
“Important education reimbursements, including school transportation, special education transportation, and special education tuition reimbursements, remain significantly underfunded, leaving local school districts and taxpayers to make up the difference.
“Those costs do not simply disappear. They are pushed onto local communities and local taxpayers. At a time when Illinois families are already struggling with some of the highest property taxes in the nation, state government should be helping reduce that burden.
“Making matters worse, Democrats chose to sweep $150 million in surplus sales tax revenue generated by higher gas prices into government spending on special interests rather than providing real relief at the pump. Illinois families are paying more every time they fill up their tanks, and instead of helping taxpayers, Springfield found another way to spend their money.
“I will continue fighting for responsible budgeting, meaningful property tax relief, and policies that truly support Central Illinois families.”
