Governor Rauner provided a realistic budget figure based on current revenues. Not only did his “turnaround budget” proposal not include new programs, it also takes care of our financial obligations. That, too, is a first in more than a decade. Additionally, the proposal did not include any tax increases, “Before we ask the people of Illinois to pay more to fund state government, we must ensure taxpayers are getting value for their money,” stated Governor Rauner during his address to the General Assembly.
With the first step in the budget process completed (The governor proposes a budget), it is now up to the General Assembly to review the Governor Rauner’s proposal, evaluate its impact on the people of Illinois and then provide the Governor with its priorities.
There’s a long way to go before the May budget vote. In the next few months, the four legislative caucuses will be working with the Governor to craft a final budget that takes into consideration legislative and gubernatorial priorities.
There is still much work to be done and many versions to consider before the budget is ready for a vote.
For more on the Governor's Budget Address:
Governor Rauner’s Budget Proposal
Read Governor Rauner’s Budget Address
Watch Governor Rauner’s Budget Address