Jefferson Responds to Budget Plan

February 20th, 2008 at 05:03pm Aaron Chambers

Jefferson’s press release:

SPRINGFIELD, IL– State Rep. Chuck Jefferson, D-Rockford, responded to the governor’s State of the State Address on Wednesday cautiously, recognizing the difficulties that lay ahead for the General Assembly and the State of Illinois.

The governor addressed the economic challenges facing our nation and purposed a state economic stimulus plan that mirrors the national plan.  It would include a tax credit for families with children under the age of 18, a 20% tax break for big corporations that pay corporate taxes, and a capital bill.

“Many of the Governor’s proposals are lofty and it is especially important right now that the state take measures to be fiscally responsible,” Jefferson said.  “In an uncertain economy with a massive budget shortfall, we need to tread very carefully before funding new initiatives.  It is my priority to talk with constituents about budgetary and legislative proposals that arise in the coming months to make sure the people of Rockford have a voice in this process.”Once again, the Governor promised to focus on increasing health care programs but did not say how the state would pay for them.  In the past, options to fund such increases have been cuts to other programs and tax increases on small businesses.   While the governor plans to pursue a 20% tax break for corporations, Jefferson said he will continue to be fiscally responsible and stand up for small businesses to ensure that our local economy will not be devastated by the Governor’s plans.

Governor Blagojevich announced his intention to pursue a much needed capital bill.  The capital bill would include $25 billion in projects across the state and several large projects for Central Illinois. The proposed bill would create 700,000 jobs throughout the state. The Governor proposed to pay for these projects by once again leasing the lottery.

“A capital plan will be an investment into the state of Illinois by creating good jobs and stimulating our economy,” Jefferson said. “It will make our state more attractive to businesses because of improved infrastructure and better schools for our kids.  It is important that, in the face of economic downturn in the state and nation, we act responsibly to improve education, roads and job opportunities.” 

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