SPRINGFIELD – Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims, Jr. released the following statement after the governor outlined his budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2026:

“Through our unwavering commitment to fiscal responsibility, Illinois has engineered a remarkable financial turnaround that marks a defining moment in our state's economic history. Just 10 years ago, Illinois was in the midst of a two-year budget impasse as we faced an unsustainable cycle of unpaid bills and neared junk bond status. However, thanks to the last six years of balanced budgets, we have bounced back and are on the path toward long-term stability and prosperity.

“We’re facing an unprecedented year – in part due to unpredictability from the federal government. However, just like the uncertainty faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, our spending will be a direct result of the crisis we face. At the forefront of fiscal responsibility, we will meet and challenge what’s in front of us. We’ve done that before – and we’ll do it again.

“The governor’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 is a good first step toward investing and preparing for our future, but our work is far from done. I look forward to joining my colleagues in the General Assembly in having a robust discussion about this year’s budget and passing a budget that is balanced, extremely bright, and addresses the very real needs of the people of this great state.”