NW Illinois News

Illinois House Republicans have expressed their discontent following the announcement by the Pritzker Administration of a projected $3.2 billion budget deficit for fiscal year 2026. The Republican lawmakers criticized the state’s budget process, which they claim has relied heavily on temporary measures and tax increases, rather than sustainable financial management.

Despite an increase in taxes amounting to $1 billion in fiscal year 2025, the administration is now seeking solutions to address the significant deficit by asking state agencies to suggest program and operational cuts. According to House Minority Leader Tony McCombie, "House Republicans support the ongoing budget review process led by the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB)." However, McCombie emphasized the need for transparency in sharing results with legislators and appropriation committees.

The budget issues stem from several major cost drivers including Medicaid expansions, increased funding for education, early childhood programs, public safety reforms under the SAFE-T Act, human services programs, and rising costs associated with group health insurance and contracts with AFSCME. These initiatives were implemented without long-term funding plans.

Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain remarked on previous warnings given by Republicans regarding excessive spending outpacing revenue growth. Spain noted that these concerns were dismissed by Governor Pritzker who labeled Republicans as "carnival barkers" and "doom grifters."

The issue of unsustainable budgeting is not new for House Republicans who have repeatedly raised concerns over state spending practices and a lack of transparency in budgeting processes. Deputy Minority Leader Norine Hammond commented on what she views as reckless spending practices leading to taxpayer burdens: “It is clear that the supermajority’s reckless spending practices have caught up with them."

Assistant Deputy Leader Amy Elik highlighted specific tactics used to balance the fiscal year 2025 budget such as utilizing surplus funds from fiscal year 2024 for Medicaid liabilities and diverting Road Fund dollars. She noted these actions contributed to what she describes as a "fiscal cliff."

As Illinois legislators wrapped up their veto session, they are set to reconvene for the Lame Duck Session early next year.