SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) issued the following statement Wednesday following Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget proposal address:

“The proposed budget brings meaningful investment in community-based programs that prevent, reduce and interrupt the violence within our neighborhoods. In addition, I am interested in preserving housing stability by working with the governor to address the disparities in home appraisals that continue to contribute to the racial wealth gap.”

“This budget proposal prioritizes building community, which is especially prevalent in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Building community means supporting and protecting the entities aiming to reform oppressive systems that target Black and Brown populations, entrench racism and motivate violent behavior.”

“I look forward to beginning negotiations on creating and refining the most equitable financial plan possible.”