CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins (D-Chicago) released the following statement after Governor JB Pritzker’s joint State of the State and Budget Address for Fiscal Year 2027:

“This proposal is a direct response to federal actions that shift financial burdens onto Illinois. We remain committed to protecting our state’s fiscal stability while continuing to invest in Illinois families, workers and communities. Even in the face of federal setbacks, we will uphold our responsibilities and put Illinois first.

“Last year we made meaningful progress toward stabilizing Illinois’ finances while still improving the communities we represent, and this year we are continuing with that focus by making purposeful investments in the implementation of the Department of Early Childhood – an essential program that will offer quality, affordable early learning and child care to families in need.

“I am hopeful that through continued conversations, we can use this proposal as a starting point for building an Illinois where opportunity is not determined by ZIP code or circumstance.”

###