Quincy Reporter

House Republicans have laid out their priorities for the new state budget in Illinois. The budget, which will be adopted before the spring adjournment, faces challenges due to the significant amount of taxpayer dollars being spent on caring for migrants. This has made it even harder to allocate funds for other programs and services.

The priorities set by House Republicans for this year's budget include:

✅ No new taxes

✅ Tackling pension debt

✅ Improving state agency efficiency

✅ Funding education

✅ Prioritizing services for Illinois citizens

In a statement, House Republicans emphasized the need to address the state's pension debt and ensure efficient use of taxpayer money. They also highlighted the importance of investing in education and providing essential services to Illinois citizens.

One of the major challenges the state is facing is the controversial immigrant healthcare program. The programs, known as "Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults" (HBIA) and "Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors" (HBIS), have become a significant component of the state's budget. However, it has been revealed that these programs are running hundreds of millions of dollars over budget.

According to a spokesperson from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, current spending trends indicate that the programs will exceed the appropriated amount by $223 million in fiscal year 2024. This raises concerns about the sustainability of the programs and the need for better financial management.

In other news, the Camp Point Central High School Panthers football team, winners of the 2023 IHSA Class 1A championship, were welcomed to the Capitol by Senator Tracy and other officials. Representative [Name] expressed pride as an alumnus of Camp Point Central and recently obtained House approval of HR 3307, which congratulates the team and coaching staff on their championship season.

The Illinois Manufacturers' Association (IMA) is also celebrating a significant milestone. Founded 130 years ago, the IMA has grown into the nation's oldest state manufacturing trade association and a strong business advocacy organization in Illinois. Congratulations were extended to IMA members across the state and to IMA President and CEO Mark Denzler.

Furthermore, the State of Illinois is partnering with the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center to launch the Made in Illinois Grant Program. This program aims to support small and mid-sized manufacturers by providing grant funding of up to $50,000. Applications for the program are open until the end of March.

In the district, several Illinois farm families, including the Marr family from Morgan County, will be featured in an advertisement during the Super Bowl. This recognition highlights the importance of agriculture in the state and showcases the hard work and dedication of local farmers.

Finally, on February 12th, the state celebrated the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln, who was born in Illinois in 1809, had a profound impact on the state and the nation through his efforts to end slavery. His legacy continues to be honored and remembered.

As the budget priorities are set and the state faces financial challenges, House Republicans are committed to addressing the pension debt, improving efficiency, and prioritizing services for Illinois citizens. The state's manufacturing sector is also receiving support through grants, and local achievements, such as the success of the Camp Point Central High School Panthers football team and the recognition of Illinois farm families, are being celebrated.