Dear Friends,

Yesterday, the Illinois Legislature passed a temporary, "stopgap" budget. The "stopgap" budget authorizes the governor to initiate spending on state operations, K-12 education, higher education, human services, road projects and other services.

Although there are many good things that will come of this temporary budget, I acknowledge there are still many struggles ahead. I remain committed to fighting for the hardworking, middle class residents of the Fighting 19th!

Below is a brief overview of what this plan will do.

I look forward to seeing and hearing from you over the summer!

Sincerely,

Senator Michael Hastings
19th District – Illinois

State Operations

$720 million will be appropriated to help pay for costs that have been incurred at state facilities and agencies for expenses such as utilities, food, medical care, gas auto repairs and more.

Higher Education

$1 billion of funding for universities, community colleges, MAP grants, adult education programs, career and technical education programs and other related grants and programs.

P-12 Education

A $331 million increase to education funding, including a $75 million dollar increase to early childhood education. It ensures funding for 2017 to ensure that schools can open on time and operate the entire school year.

Specific to the 19th Legislative District, our schools will see an increase of $219 per pupil, which will help some of our financially struggling schools.

Human Services

$670 million in resources to support non-Medicaid clients served through the Community Care Program, addiction treatment program and individuals receiving mental health services. It also includes funding for Breast and Cervical Screening program, AIDS/HIV services, Adult and Juvenile Redeploy, senior services, homeless services, youth programs, funeral and burial services, immigration services and minority family commissions.