The deadline for passing a fair and responsible budget by our State Legislators has come and gone. The result? Nothing yet. We are still facing massive cuts to human service programs and state-run agencies that rely on equitable funding from the State to protect and serve the elderly, the disabled, children and others who depend on these services. Social service representatives, clients, government officials and taxpayers alike came out en masse throughout the month of June to decry cuts to human service programs. Through rallies, vigils and contacting State Senators and Representatives, our voices were heard but not listened to.
As a result, agencies in our area are cutting services, programs and jobs NOW. They can’t wait two weeks more for the state legislature to get back in session and pass a budget; they have to go by what their contracts are, and those contracts reflect an average of 50% cuts in government funding. As a result, we have heard from local agencies that are reducing or cutting services, closing supportive housing and shelters, and cutting staff. Without a budget and without an extended contract, these agencies cannot continue serving our most vulnerable populations.
We continue to urge legislators in Springfield to do their job and create a solid budget that leaves no one behind. We also urge them to be clear and transparent when communicating the results of the current Springfield session. All Illinois residents have a stake in this budget, and as it stands right now human services is not only lacking funding but direction on how to proceed. Please continue to reach out to your State Representative and Senator. Click here to ACT NOW.
