SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois General Assembly heard Gov. JB Pritzker’s first budget address today.

State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) issued the following statement:

“I think the governor’s proposed budget places our values at the forefront by increasing funding for education from kindergarten all the way through college. I am also pleased with the increased funding for public safety and child care assistance.

“This isn’t the final product. We still have over three months to work on balancing the budget. I am confident however, that this new governor will bring a new way of doing things that will be a breath of fresh air after years of political gridlock.”