Illinois House approves $53 billion budget

Posted on May 29, 2024
SB 251 SA 3 has passed the House, 65-45, and awaits the governor’s action. (Dave Dahl/WJBC)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – A $53.1 billion budget is on its way to the governor.

Just after 2 a.m., the Illinois House agreed to the budget the Senate passed Sunday. The wee-hours vote was meant to meet the requirement that the bill be read on three separate days: Sunday, Tuesday, and (very early) Wednesday.

“Illinois will make the full pension payment for FY 25,” said State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (D-Peoria), the House Democratic leader responsible for the budget. “This budget will make a $198 million investment into Illinois’ rainy day fund. It appropriates $20 billion in all funds for education.”

The House Republicans’ chief budgeteer, Rep. Norine Hammond (R-Macomb), says it’s no longer a legislative negotiation. “It’s an exercise in bullying and absolute power.” Hammond said Democrats are only here for themselves.

State Rep. Blaine Wilhour (R-Beceher City) said the budget does not address the state’s “illegal alien crisis,” noting the state will educate migrant children but will not allocate the necessary funds.

Seven House Democrats – Reps. Harry Benton (D-Plainfield), Anthony DeLuca (D-Chicago Heights), Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview), Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville), Nabeela Syed (D-Chicago), Larry Walsh, Jr. (D-Elwood), and Lance Yednock (D-Ottawa) – joined all House Republicans in voting against the bill.

SB 251 SA 3 has passed the House, 65-45, and awaits the governor’s action.

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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