Kankakee Times

Earlier today, the Illinois House of Representatives passed the FY26 budget. State Representative Jackie Haas (R-Kankakee) issued a statement in response to the budget's approval.

Haas criticized the new budget, stating: “Another year, another budget filled with gimmicks and tax hikes on hardworking Illinoisans. Despite already bearing one of the highest tax burdens in the nation, Illinois taxpayers are now on the hook for the continued out-of-control spending of the majority party. The over $55 billion budget raises taxes on hardworking Illinoisans by $1 billion. Our citizens cannot afford more out-of-control spending, misplaced priorities, higher taxes, and more inflation."

She expressed concerns about the lack of balance in drafting the budget: “Unfortunately, this is what happens when there is zero balance or diversity of ideas when the budget is drafted. This is what happens when the majority party ignores Republican-filed bills to lower the cost of living, provide property tax relief, and cut energy costs. Instead of building a coalition of lawmakers that spans the political spectrum to ensure the budget properly represents and benefits all Illinoisans, the FY26 was drafted behind closed doors with no room for opposition."

Haas concluded her statement by calling for change: “This process cannot continue any longer. All Illinoisans deserve to have proper representation in Springfield.”

For further details about Representative Haas, visit RepHaas.com.