SPRINGFIELD – After listening to Governor JB Pritzker’s Budget Address, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) praised the governor’s proposals for large increases to early childhood education and need-based financial aid for college students.

“We need to make Illinois a state that treats early childhood development with the importance it deserves. That’s why I strongly support the governor’s proposal to increase the early childhood education funding by $50 million,” Villanueva said.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) released the following statement after Gov. Pritzker’s State of the State address:

“I am proud to have Gov. Pritzker as an ally in our fight to regain public trust in Springfield. Placing self-interest before the people you represent is shameful and, honestly, disgusting. With the governor’s help, we will fight corruption in our government.

“I’m excited that the governor wants Illinois to take the lead on protecting the environment and using cleaner sources of energy. We have the opportunity to set the example as one of the most environmentally conscious states in the nation.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) released the following statement in response to charges filed against former State Senator Martin Sandoval (D-Chicago):

“The charges filed against Martin Sandoval paint a clear picture of corruption. People in my community and across the state lose faith in our government because of cases like this. This year, we must rebuild public trust and enact real ethics reform. Our democracy depends on it.

While this situation is infuriating, it gives me hope because it means that no one, no matter how powerful, is above the law. The house of cards is quickly falling, and we need to seize this moment to make sure that corrupt individuals can no longer game the system.”

SPRINGFIELD – With the election of Don Harmon (D-Oak Park) as Senate President, State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) is ready to pass ethics reform.

“Now that we have fresh leadership in the Senate, it’s time to fight for an honest, transparent Springfield,” Villanueva said. “Corruption scandals have plagued our government for too long and the people in my community and throughout the state have had enough. I am looking forward to working with my new colleagues in the Senate to bring about real change.”