© 2024 WGLT
A public service of Illinois State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

LaHood Lauds State Budget Stopgap, Urges Turnaround Action

Staff

Up until last week, Illinois was the only state in the nation that did not have a budget. Now, there’s a partial spending plan in place to help cash-strapped social service agencies and public colleges. It's also good news for the state’s reputation.

Republican Congressman Darin LaHood of Illinois says it’s a relief to have people in Washington D.C. stop asking about the impasse.

“You know, just the perception of Illinois, we need some good news and this is good news for Illinois. We’ve come together, we’ve compromised, we’re moving forward," LaHood said.

He said the six-month spending plan is just a start. He’d like to see lawmakers come back to Governor Bruce Rauner’s turnaround agenda which was set aside at the last minute in order to reach a budget deal.               

“If the foundation of your house is crumbling and falling apart you don’t put on a new third floor and fourth floor, you fix the foundation. And that’s what’s Governor Rauner is trying to do with worker’s compensation reform, regulation, taxes, reigning in our public pensions." LaHood added.

LaHood said the Governor’s proposals will help create a better working climate in Illinois. But, Democrats oppose the Republican Governor’s turnaround agenda, calling it anti-worker.

Related Content