Illinois governor's proposed $53B budget includes funds for migrants, quantum computing and schools
Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker is outlining a $52.7 billion state spending plan with more money for the migrant crisis, education and quantum computing
CHICAGO (AP) — Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker pitched a $52.7 billion state spending plan Wednesday with more money to address the migrant crisis, education and quantum computing, while proposing tax increases that will mostly target business, including a major sports betting tax hike.
The second-term Democrat characterized the proposed budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1, and representing a roughly 2% increase in spending, as “focused and disciplined.”
"I wish we had big surpluses to work with this year to take on every one of the very real challenges we face,” Pritzker told lawmakers during the budget combined with the yearly State of the State address. “It’s important to note, that while this budget is tight this year, our fiscal house is in order, and we are able to keep our commitments to the people of Illinois."
Funding for asylum seekers is expected to be among the most controversial issues as lawmakers in the Democrat-majority House and Senate begin budget negotiations. House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch has already convened a panel on new arrivals while Republicans vow to target sanctuary laws. Illinois has already invested $638 million to address the crisis.
