Springfield – Governor Quinn addressed the people of Illinois today to outline how he would like the next year’s budget to shape out.  State Rep. Ed Sullivan (R-Mundelien) released this statement in response to Quinn’s address.

"€œI am not sure if the governor remembers that we are still in a fiscal crisis,"€ said Sullivan.  "€œHis budget is calling for a 3% increase in spending.  Now, more than ever, we need to be looking into ways to cut back, not increase spending."

“Our number one priority needs to be pension reform.  This proposed budget allocates 19% of our revenue to pensions.  We are looking at a scenario where education and public safety are going to have to be sacrificed just to afford pension payments.  Reforming pensions needs to be done before we form a budget, not after.”

Springfield – Governor Pat Quinn addressed a joint session of the Illinois General Assembly today to give his annual State of the State speech.  In his address, Quinn outlined his priorities for the upcoming legislative session, including increasing Illinois’ minimum wage, pension reform, and an assault weapons ban.  State Rep. Ed Sullivan (R-Mundelein) released this statement following the governor’s remarks:

"€œIt is encouraging to hear the governor address the serious crisis that is our woefully funded pension system, but we have heard this same song for the past six years.  We need serious action, and we need it now.  No longer can the people of Illinois afford to front the bill for $100 billion in unfunded pension liability.  The governor has talked the talk, now it is time for him to walk the walk.€

"€œJust yesterday, Democrats threw us a curve ball out of left field.  Despite being in a finical crisis, an appropriations bill was sprung upon us which increased FY13 spending $2.1 billion.  The governor talks about reform, yet it is the same song year in and year out.  Spend the money now, ask questions later."€