SPRINGFIELD – On Wednesday, State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) returned to Springfield for the reconvening of the Illinois Senate after over two months of cancelation due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The unusual circumstances that we passed a budget under cannot be overstated, Stadelman said. “We had to not only pass a responsible budget, but to also address the vast challenges the state has now been place under due to COVID-19.”

Stadelman highlighted the additional funding the state received under the federal CARES act.

The additional federal funding will be distributed to local governments, Business Interruption Grant program, rent and mortgage assistance and more.

“This budget addresses some of the most important challenges facing downstate communities like mine.” Stadelman said. “Health care workers and essential employees are on the frontline every day to ensure our safety and livelihood. They need assistance and they need it now. That is reflected in this budget.”

Stadelman also emphasized that the state has committed to holding the line for K-12 and higher education funding.

“As a state we need to make sure that we continue to maintain steady funding for our schools,” Stadelman said. “Districts have had to significantly adjust due to COVID-19. It was important that we showed our students and educators that they are a priority.”

Senate Bill 262 passed the Senate with a vote of 37-19-0.

“With the circumstances we were placed under, this is a responsible and most importantly a fair budget.”