SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Tinley Park) released the following statement regarding Gov. JB Pritzker’s Budget Address this afternoon.

"It's an exciting new day in Illinois, and I am proud to say we finally have a governor who understands the challenges of the good people of Illinois and is ready to take them head on,” Hastings said.

While there is no doubt Illinois faces its share of problems, Senator Hastings said he feels encouraged by the path being followed in the current administration.

“Gov. Pritzker outlined today the serious challenges we face in Illinois. We have a state budget deficit that we must correct. We need to create jobs and opportunity for all Illinoisans,” he added. “We have many people facing hardships: in our jails and prisons because they have mental health disorders that go untreated; out of work and struggling because they can't afford health care and the medications they need. It is our duty to improve our economy, shore up our budget and give hope to many facing difficult times.”

Senator Hastings looks forward to the chance to lead discussions on how to best present solutions to the people of Illinois.

“As chairman of the Senate Executive Committee, I will help lead discussions this year on our most difficult issues, and I look forward to working with the governor and my colleagues to make Illinois stronger and better tomorrow than it is today,” he said.