Sen Oberweis: Gov. Rauner remains committed to new direction for Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Bruce Rauner remains committed to a new direction for Illinois, asking lawmakers again to work with him to achieve fiscal responsibility and a fundamental change in the way state government works, according to State Sen. Jim Oberweis (R-Sugar Grove).

Rauner issued his call for change during his second “State of the State” address, presented to a joint session of Illinois lawmakers Jan. 27 in the House of Representatives chambers.

“The Rauner Administration has been working to bring a new direction to our state, but has come up against a wall of politicians who are quite comfortable with the status quo and don’t want things to change. Gov. Rauner continues to stress the need for economic recovery and comprehensive government reform, which I support,” Oberweis said. “Let’s be honest, Illinois. How have the past 12 years of tax-and-spend policies and questionable budgeting practices worked out for us?”

To overcome years of economic stagnation and loss, Illinois’ legislative leaders must move beyond outdated policies, partisan differences and power plays. Oberweis said the state’s fiscal forecast is bleak if the legislative majorities refuse to come to the table. With no meaningful reforms, Illinois is projected to have a nearly $5 billion hole in the Fiscal Year 2016 budget and by June 30, the state could have $9 billion in unpaid bills.

“Preliminary reports indicate Illinois’ finances are a mess and the fiscal decisions we face over the coming months are going to be tough,” Oberweis said, “We are fortunate to have a leader in the Governor’s Mansion who is committed to the kind of fundamental change that will turn things around. Bruce Rauner is not in this job to win a popularity contest. He will continue to stand up to entrenched politicians. He will not knuckle under to Speaker Madigan.”

The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget recently released three-year fiscal projections mandated by state statute, and those numbers show that under “auto-pilot” budgets over the next three years, the state’s backlog of bills could reach $25 billion by June 30, 2019.

The 25th District Senator said he supports Gov. Rauner’s call for shared sacrifice.

“Representative Keith Wheeler and I are sharing an office in North Aurora. In Springfield, Senator Chris Nybo and I are sharing a legislative aide. I have returned several thousands of dollars to taxpayers from my state Senate budget. They are small steps, but they show we are willing to save taxpayer dollars. Every little bit helps,” Oberweis said. “I have also introduced legislation that will end defined-benefit pensions for state legislators, with a potential for huge savings. On a personal note, I have waived my right to a state pension.”

Key to turning Illinois around is promoting the kind of economic climate that encourages job creation and growth. Other legislative issues that should be part of the conversation this year are property tax relief; education funding and reforms that prepare young people for careers; workers’ compensation and regulation reforms that encourage business growth and jobs; and reining in state spending.

Oberweis said he stands ready to work with Gov. Rauner and his fellow lawmakers to find solutions for the many problems facing Illinois.

Gov. Rauner is expected to release his budget Feb. 17.