Speaker Welch Celebrates Strongest Financial Outlook for Illinois in Decades

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch applauded Governor JB Pritzker’s State of the State and Budget Address that was delivered on Wednesday at the Old State Capitol. The governor's proposal included $1 billion in one-time relief for every Illinoisan, made possible after years of hard work and fiscally responsible decisions with the General Assembly.

"The governor's budget address laid out a clear path to continue moving our state toward financial stability and surety while prioritizing hardworking Illinoisans. I could not be more proud of this state and the significant progress we've made in such a short amount of time," said Speaker Welch.

Thanks to disciplined fiscal responsibility and stronger-than-expected revenues, Illinois has significantly improved its financial situation. In addition to paying off debts early, there is also the potential for significant investments in public safety, education and quality health care.

"It's hard to imagine, but just a few years ago under the previous Republican administration we had a bill backlog of $17 billion, human service programs were decimated, our credit rating reached near junk status and Illinoisans were suffering because of it," said Speaker Welch. "It is thanks to hard work and responsible fiscal management that we are now in the position to discuss property tax relief, tax cuts for everyday necessities, millions in new spending for education, major investments in public safety and nearly eliminating our bill-payment backlog."

This budget proposal is considered a starting point for legislative negotiations. The General Assembly now begins the extensive process of appropriation hearings, bipartisan negotiations and balancing the needs of the entire state.

"Our future is much brighter and our fiscal outlook is strong," said Speaker Welch. "This proposal by Governor Pritzker is an excellent starting point for our legislative budget negotiations. We cannot lose sight of the fact that we are still very much in the midst of an unprecedented pandemic and we must continue providing relief to people who are struggling. I have full confidence in Leader Greg Harris, his budget team, our appropriations committees and our Democratic Caucus to produce a final product that continues to build a better Illinois for all."