State Rep. Maurice West Statement on the End of the Legislative Session and Passage of the Balanced State Budget

ROCKFORD, Ill. – As the spring legislative session concluded Saturday, state Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, backed a responsible balanced budget that further invests in schools, public safety efforts, healthcare and other priorities while maintaining the fiscal discipline that has led to multiple state credit rating upgrades in recent years.

“The uncertainty coming from Donald Trump’s White House has made it even more important we pass a fiscally responsible balanced budget,” said State Rep. Maurice West.  “This budget provides critical investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and more while guarding against overreach that could threaten our hard-earned financial stability.”

In addition to record investments in education, safety-net hospitals and other state priorities, the West-backed budget brings significant funding to the Rockford area for local priorities. Some of the local funding includes $3 million for the Family Peace Center, $2 million for the Northern Illinois Land Bank, $1.5 million in capital projects, and $1.7 million to the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois to support local nonprofits with operational funding. It also provides $3.7 million for funding the Home Modification Program, an initiative spearheaded by Rep. West that helps keep seniors and people with disabilities in their homes.

In addition to the balanced budget, West this session successfully shepherded key pieces of legislation through the Illinois General Assembly. “Dillon’s Law” is a lifesaving measure that would better empower trained community members to obtain and administer epinephrine to protect against deadly allergic reactions to insect stings, food and other allergens. House Bill 1431 requires hospitals to inform patients about facility fees to promote transparency so patients are better informed. West also supported key legislation to combat rising prescription drug prices, protect access to reproductive healthcare, and ease pathways to higher education for Illinois’ students. 

“In an era when tearing each other down rules the day, I appreciate the compassionate steps we have taken forward in Illinois to help others,” said West.  “More challenges lie ahead, but I’m optimistic we can work together to build a stronger future for all in the Rockford area and across our state.”

For more information, please contact Press@StateRepWest.com or call 815-987-7433.

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