Gov. Pritzker opened with a stark look at early projections of how badly COVID-19 has and will hit state finances.
He said projections indicate FY20 will see a $2.7 billion shortfall, and a possible $4.6 billion shortfall for FY21.
Among other measures he said his administration is taking, Pritzker said his agencies are seeking spending reductions and efficiencies, he is working with the comptroller and treasurer to coordinate the state's finances, and he thanked Congress' efforts to fund state government through the CARES Act.
Nonetheless, Pritzker called on the federal government to put through a second CARES Act with relief for state governments that can be used for new COVID-19-related losses, unlike the current monies.
Pritzker said estimates show a possible $500 billion deficit in all state government budgets nationwide, and he renewed his pledge not to short human services as the state figures out how to get through the financial crisis caused by the virus.
"The federal government acted swiftly to step in to support businesses and corporations, but the same type of action is needed in support of state governments," Pritzker said.
The governor also declared that “we will not go without a state budget.”
IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike reported 1,346 new confirmed cases of COVID-19, bringing total cases to 24,593, and 80 additional deaths, bringing the state's total death toll to 948.
The governor was asked whether the decision to go back to work will be made county-by-county in Illinois. He said in part, yes, in much the same way that some communities issued stay-at-home orders before there was a statewide order.
Asked about summer activities – specifically summer camps – and whether they would be allowed, the governor said he would wait to see what the science says.
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