Barickman: ‘Travesty’ social service programs shutting down

Jason Barickman
State Sen. Jason Barickman had little hope for a state budget by June 30. (Photo courtesy Facebook/Jason Barickman)

By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – State Sen. Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) called it a “travesty” social service providers in Illinois have began cutting programs or even shutting down completely.

Barickman told WJBC’s Dan Swaney part of the role of government is to provide a safety net for people who need these types of programs.

“We’re seeing one story after another where those services are no longer being provided. That has a real effect on people’s lives, even for those who maybe aren’t directly impacted by it,” said Barickman. “Where those people go when those services aren’t available are critically important.”

What hope does Barickman have of passing a full state budget by June 30?

“With almost no uncertainty, I don’t see that happening,” he said.

Barickman hoped legislators can push through funding for education by the end of the fiscal year.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].

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