SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Napoleon B. Harris, III is pleased to see further investments were made into funding schools, supporting public safety efforts and prioritizing children in communities across Illinois. He released the following statement in response to the governor signing the budget on Wednesday:  

“Our children are the future of our state. The state’s budget once again continues our commitment toward the evidence based funding model for K-12 education along with a $10.3 million increase for career and technical education programs to allow an increase in the number of students who are able to enroll in these programs. Every dollar we invest in our students will lay a solid foundation toward their opportunities to be successful adults.

“The state’s budget will continue to invest in the Restore, Reinvest, Renew program to aid communities that have been harmed by violence and economic disinvestment. Additionally, a $3.5 million investment to the Pretrial Success Act will foster holistic healing and strengthening of communities most impacted by systemic inequities. We need to continue to prioritize funding to these data-driven intervention programs, youth initiatives and educational opportunities.

“Today we can celebrate this win but rest assured – I will continue to fight to prioritize our children’s future and keeping our communities safe.”