Chambana Sun

Governor JB Pritzker recently introduced his state budget proposal for the next fiscal year, sparking various reactions from different quarters. Illinois State Senator, 51st District, Chapin Rose, expressed concerns about the Governor's budget choices, particularly in relation to immigration-related costs and their impact on local communities.

Rose highlighted the implications of the Governor's proposed budget, stating, "A budget is a set of policy choices: for every taxpayer dollar pledged to cause 'X,' it means that cause 'Y' did not receive that same dollar." He raised alarms about the tax increases on working families and cuts to budgets requested by educational institutions like Eastern Illinois University (EIU) and the University of Illinois.

Regarding the Governor's stance on the "sanctuary state" policy, Rose criticized Pritzker for attributing Illinois' immigration-related costs to other states and emphasized the need to consider the consequences of such policies. He pointed out that the Governor's budget includes significant spending on housing, healthcare, and other immigrant-related expenses, impacting various sectors such as education and services for the developmentally and intellectually disabled.

Rose also addressed the issue of grocery tax elimination proposed by the Governor, highlighting concerns about the potential burden shift to property taxpayers in local communities. He expressed disagreement with Pritzker's approach and urged for a more comprehensive plan that includes reimbursement to cover local losses and provide genuine tax relief.

In conclusion, Rose called for a reevaluation of Illinois' "sanctuary state" status and emphasized the importance of understanding the trade-offs and consequences associated with policy decisions. As budget negotiations progress in Springfield, he urged individuals to consider the broader implications of funding priorities and taxation in the state.