D'Amico Votes YES on HB576

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. John D’Amico, D-Chicago, voted to cut his own pay and ensure legislators are not receiving raises while middle-class families, the elderly, and people with disabilities are facing challenges as a result of Gov. Bruce Rauner’s government shutdown.

“State services that help maintain the well-being and security of Illinois’ most vulnerable citizens are facing severe cutbacks and having to layoff needed workers to keep their heads above water,” D’Amico said. “No legislator should be receiving a pay raise while we are at a budget impasse and these programs for their families, seniors and children are at risk.”

D’Amico voted to pass House Bill 576, which blocks pay raises for legislators and freezes mileage reimbursement rates. In May, D’Amico voted for a spending plan that rejected legislators’ automatic pay increase, however, the governor chose to veto that plan. In addition to cutting his pay, D’Amico chose to refuse his legislative salary until a long-term budget solution is reached.

“Breaking the gridlock in Springfield and passing a budget that provides for people in great need starts with legislators who are willing to stand up for what is right,” D’Amico said. “I urge the Senate to pass this bill and join me in proceeding down the right path to pass a budget in a bipartisan effort to protect middle-class families and services for Illinois.”

House Bill 576 passed the House with bipartisan support and awaits consideration in the Senate.