Pritzker to present his proposed state budget Wednesday

Posted on February 19, 2024
On Wednesday, Gov. JB Pritzker will propose a budget for the fiscal year which begins July 1. (WJBC file photo)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker presents his proposed budget Wednesday. We asked the state’s two financial officers what they think we’ll hear.

Treasurer Mike Frerichs tries to tamp down expectations.

“I think the governor is looking at some leaner times,” said Frerichs. “The governor and General Assembly have passed budgets which have had surpluses, that’s been very helpful the last few years. But we’ve got some tougher times ahead of us, and for those who are expecting brand-new programs and lots of new spending, I think they are going to be surprised.”

Comptroller Susana Mendoza expressed a similar sentiment.

“My hope would be that we hold the line on any non-essential new spending, right?” said Mendoza. “That’s a good formula for success.”

The governor has committed $182 million to the migrant crisis in Chicago.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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