Suburban lawmakers praise Illinois’ sound fiscal policymaking decisions

SPRINGFIELD – Fitch Rating released a revised outlook on Illinois’ financial forecast earlier this week, a move several suburban lawmakers praise as a direct result of responsible spending.

“After years of fiscal irresponsibility and chaos under the previous governor, these rating upgrades are an example of what we can accomplish by working together to implement responsible budgets,” said State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort).. “This is a vote of confidence in the future of our state.”

“Legislative actions have consequences and we are seeing the choices made by the General Assembly over the past several years yield positive results,” said State Senator John Connor (D-Lockport).“The bottom line is that this is a concrete example of fiscal responsibility creating an incredibly bright future for our state.”

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Morrison speaks out on enhanced DCFS training for LGBTQ youth in care

HIGHWOOD – Following recent findings that the Illinois Department of Children and Family was not respecting the needs of LGBTQ youth in care, the agency announced Tuesday it is enhancing its LGBTQ training and resources. State Senator Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) is calling on the department to adhere to its policies to ensure all children feel safe and heard.

“LGBTQ youth in care are disproportionately likely to become homeless and deal with mental health struggles,” Morrison said. “I am hopeful under the enhanced training DCFS will work more diligently to respect LGBTQ children’s identities and prioritize the care they need.”

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New election law signed to encourage more voters to participate

SPRINGFIELD – Following the success of a law to provide more efficient ways for people to cast their ballot from home during the peak of the pandemic, a new proposal to make voting by mail permanently more accessible was signed into law.

“This keeps in place a number of voter conveniences that have proven popular,” said Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park). “It’s a great example of lawmakers listening to the diverse voices of voters and taking steps to maintain and encourage voter participation.”

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Fiscal Year 2022 state budget signed into Law

SPRINGFIELD — On Thursday, Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 2017, the FY22 Budget Implementation Act, as well as Senate Bill 2800, the state’s spending plan, a package of legislation that puts Illinois back on the path toward fiscal stability. 

"We have approved a budget plan that I believe is balanced, responsible and puts us on a path toward a brighter future,” said Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman, Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago). “Not only is this budget balanced, it provides stability by making our full required pension payment, paying down the borrowing we needed last year and funding many of our priorities to put our state on the right path."

Read more: Fiscal Year 2022 state budget signed into Law