West Central Reporter

Governor JB Pritzker recently presented his State of the State and Budget Address to the Illinois General Assembly, unveiling a proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The proposal outlines $55.2 billion in spending, marking an increase of nearly $2 billion from the previous fiscal year. This has prompted reactions from various state legislators.

State Representative Norine Hammond, a Republican from Macomb and Deputy Republican Leader, expressed her concerns about the Governor's budget plan. "Today, Governor Pritzker proposed the largest budget in state history," she stated. Hammond noted that under Pritzker's administration, state spending has risen by over $15 billion, reflecting a 38% increase.

Despite efforts to enhance revenue by nearly $500 million and a tax increase last year amounting to almost $1 billion, Hammond highlighted that Illinois still faces a projected deficit of at least $425 million for FY26.

Hammond acknowledged one aspect of the Governor's proposal regarding healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrants: "On a somewhat positive note, I’m glad that the Governor agrees with us that the health benefits program for undocumented immigrants is unaffordable and unsustainable." However, she criticized the decision to eliminate this program only for adults aged 42-64 while retaining it for seniors.

Expressing skepticism about potential support from Democratic lawmakers for these cuts, Hammond remarked, "I don’t believe for one second that the Democratic supermajority in the General Assembly... will agree to this proposed cut."

Hammond also voiced her opposition to Illinois' sanctuary state policy and advocated for repealing the Illinois TRUST Act. She supports legislation aimed at ending taxpayer-funded healthcare benefits for undocumented immigrant adults.

In closing her statement, Hammond emphasized House Republicans' commitment to achieving a balanced budget without resorting to gimmicks or tax hikes. "We want a budget that prioritizes the needs of Illinois working families and seniors over migrants and illegal immigrants," she asserted.

House Republicans intend to work towards passing a balanced budget that safeguards taxpayers' interests while addressing shared priorities and implementing economic reforms.