Just hours before the statutory deadline of midnight, May 31, majority party legislators pushed through a record-high budget for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes $55.2 billion in spending. After voting against the budget and it’s supporting implementation documents, State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) issued the following statement:
“At a time when Illinois families and small businesses can least afford it, I am disappointed that members of the majority party chose to move forward with a budget that raises taxes rather than relies on existing revenue. Families everywhere are tightening their belts. Shouldn’t state government do the same?
“I am extremely concerned about this budget’s reduction in service hours for professionals who provide essential care to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities (IDD). These caregivers play a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities. I believe that one of government’s most important responsibilities is to ensure that those who need the most help receive it, and that includes ensuring there are an adequate number of professionals who care for them.”
