The four members of the Illinois General Assembly who represent Knox County spoke to the Galesburg Area Chamber of Commerce this afternoon.
Republican Representatives Don Moffitt and Norine Hammond, Democratic Senator John Sullivan and Republican Senator Chuck Weaver all gave remarks that largely revolved around Illinois’ budget impasse that as of today is in it’s 10th month.
In his first time speaking to the chamber since being appointed to the 37th District Senate seat, Weaver told members that Illinois needs more “business people in government” before expressing support for Gov. Bruce Rauner’s turn around agenda of business reforms.
“Our state is at that point if we don’t change things today the pain later is going to be much worse,” Weaver says. “It’s seniors, it’s education, it’s disability, it’s the folks who can’t help themselves.”
Rep. Moffitt says it would be irresponsible to pass a budget that approves spending more than the $32 billion in projected revenue but whether spending cuts are made, revenues are raised or a combination he believes votes should be taken.
“Let’s put all three out there,” Moffitt says. “If they need to go through committee fine. If they need to go straight to the floor fine but let’s do it. Up or down votes, yes or no. That’s what we’re elected to do is vote.”
Rep. Hammond says that a mistake was made by passing a budget for K-12 education while leaving out higher ed.
“We are in tourniquet mode for higher education,” Hammond says. “It’s not just the funding for four year institutions and the community colleges but it’s the MAP grants as well. It has to be a full package. We cannot pick winners and losers.”
Sen. Sullivan says that the dire straits some Illinois higher ed institutions have found themselves in could cause a breakthrough in budget negotiations.
“I think the pressure of some of these large institutions possibly failing could be the event that puts us over the top to finally reach an agreement,” Sullivan says.
The Associated Press reports that Chicago State University has given potential layoff notices to all 900 of their employees and will end their Spring semester early.
