SPRINGFIELD – In response to the advancement of the state’s budget and tax relief plan for fiscal year 2023, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) issued the following statement:

“The state’s economic status rests on the backs of the hardworking families that power our communities, businesses and organizations. Our investment in them should reflect our investments toward economic recovery, which is being made possible thanks to Illinois’ commitment to making responsible fiscal decisions.”

“The pockets of Illinois families will see money coming back to them in the form of $1.83 billion in tax relief, which will go toward a permanent expansion of the earned income tax credit to extend support to previously ineligible groups and other tax relief measures. We will also see a significant investment in the state’s Monetary Award Program as well as community-based development opportunities.”

“I am also extremely pleased to see the state prioritize access to comprehensive health care coverage by expanding Medicaid to our low-income non-citizen seniors. Coupled with significant increases in funding for Teen REACH and other after school programs as well as other violence prevention efforts, these investments will help ensure our communities have the support and resources they need to address local issues and have a positive impact on the lives of residents.”