SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island) released the following statement on the Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget: “Voting against this budget was a tough choice. There are portions of this budget that are admirable: a fulfilled pension commitment, more money for MAP grants, money for the Rainy Day Fund, and closing tax loopholes for big business, all of which are necessary to keep our state moving. Moreover, Illinoisans will not face an increase in personal income taxes. I am also very happy with the continuation of the child tax credit, which gives Illinois families a much-deserved break. Let me be clear: Everyday Illinoisans will not see their taxes go up in this budget.
“However, we have far more work to do to fully fund Western Illinois’ priorities and institutions. In the face of chaos and uncertainty at the federal level, Illinois needs to have a solid, balanced budget to weather the crisis in Washington. I am committed to protecting vulnerable people in my district and preserving necessary services to keep Illinois moving forward.
“Western Illinois priorities must be properly addressed, and in particular, Western Illinois University. I am frustrated with the lack of commitment to our higher education institutions. Our young people are our future, and in these tumultuous times, their intelligence and their imagination will be their strongest tools to navigate an uncertain future. To sharpen these tools, higher education fosters learning that allows young folks to build a career, explore who they are and provide for their families. If we skip out on higher education, we are letting our future take a back seat.
“I will push hard in the coming months to ensure Illinois properly funds our higher education institutions. Western Illinois will not be forgotten.”
