SPRINGFIELD, IL- State Senator Chris Balkema (R-Channahon) issued the following statement after the Illinois General Assembly passed the largest budget in state history, totaling over $56 billion:
“Families across Illinois are feeling it in every direction. Property taxes keep going up, energy costs continue to rise, and the cost of gas is higher than ever with the state’s ongoing tax increases. At the same time, Illinois continues to lose people and businesses to other states that are more affordable and more competitive.
“Instead of addressing these challenges, the Democrat’s budget doubles down on the same failed approach: growing government, increasing spending, and expecting working families to shoulder the burden.
“Not to mention, we are told there is about $150 million in “surplus” fuel tax revenue, but that so-called surplus is just higher taxes automatically collected from Illinois drivers at the pump through double taxation that increases with gas prices. Rather than that surplus of $150 million going back to taxpayers, it is being spent on programs for non-citizens, like healthcare and welcome centers.
“Since the Governor took office, state spending has surged 40% while Illinois families have seen little relief. The result is predictable. Fewer opportunities, continued outmigration, and a cost of living that keeps pushing people out of our state.
“Illinois needs a budget that prioritizes taxpayers, reins in spending, and makes it more affordable to live and work here. Unfortunately, this is not that budget, and I voted NO.”