Kifowit Votes to Fund Essential Services In Committee, Will Support Funding Today in House Vote

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, released the following statement today in support of releasing federal funding for programs serving children, the disabled, and seniors:

“During the months of this impasse, I have heard from service providers and residents who are being affected by the lack of a state budget, including testimony given in committee. Many nonprofit organizations have closed their doors, leaving disabled and elderly residents without the care they need. The legislation I helped pass out of committee yesterday will ensure that seniors receive Meals on Wheels, children will get the Early Intervention they need to succeed, mothers and their children receive necessary nutrition, and working parents have child care. I will continue working to get this legislation passed, so that federal dollars which are available and ready to be used for these vital purposes can be accessed immediately.

“I will vote for this legislation today on the House floor because not having a complete state budget in place and not being able to access federal funds has already caused irreparable harm to our network of nonprofits and thousands of our most vulnerable residents. Failure to continue these programs will cost Illinois millions in extra costs and cause catastrophe for those who cannot care for themselves. Our whole social service infrastructure is at risk, thousands will be unemployed and tens of thousands of our most vulnerable citizens will be without the services they need. I will continue working for a balanced approach to funding vital needs while making cuts to make the state government more fiscally responsible.”