South Cook News

Illinois Senate Republicans are urging Governor JB Pritzker to ensure transparent accounting of taxpayer spending and avoid new tax increases in the upcoming budget address. This call comes from Republican Leader Senator John Curran, Deputy Leader Senator Sue Rezin, and Chief Budgeteer Senator Chapin Rose.

Last spring, the Democratic Majority passed a $53.3 billion budget, marking the largest in state history. This included nearly $1 billion for non-citizen programs and $1.1 billion in tax hikes.

Senator Curran emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility, stating, "The budget is truly the blueprint for our state government operations and policy agenda." He expressed concerns that Governor Pritzker's financial strategies exceed what taxpayers can sustain.

Spending under Governor Pritzker has increased by about $13 billion since he assumed office. The administration's use of executive orders and emergency declarations related to Illinois' migrant crisis has bypassed traditional transparency requirements.

Rezin criticized last year's tax increases aimed at funding non-citizen spending without sufficient details. "He continues to use emergency powers to move money in the shadows," she said.

The Republicans have requested detailed financial reports on non-citizen program spending but have received no response. To address this issue, Curran filed Senate Bill 1699, requiring annual reports on such expenditures to be submitted to the General Assembly.

Rose added that Governor Pritzker's fiscal policies have led to an avoidable deficit and potential tax hikes for Illinois families. "Today we are here to send a clear message: No new taxes on the working people of Illinois," he stated.

The Republican caucus plans to prioritize funding for education, public safety, seniors, and vulnerable residents while proposing various tax reforms including credits for daycare costs and eliminating certain business taxes.

Governor Pritzker is set to deliver his budget address on February 19th.