Sen. Burzynski comments on State Budget situation

By State Senator J. Bradley Burzynski 

May 31 has come and gone, and the state is worse off than it was a year ago. The Democratic dysfunction we observed during the Blagojevich administration continues even though there is a new Governor and a new Senate president. Makes you wonder who really is the problem, doesn't it?

We began this year in the Illinois Legislature with high hopes. Senate president Emil Jones had retired and was replaced by John Cullerton. And of course, Rod Blagojevich was impeached and replaced by Pat Quinn. There was an air of a new beginning and hope in Springfield. Change once again, was the mantra. Unfortunately, after five months of this "change," I believe it is as Yogi Berra said, "Deja vu all over again."

The one positive thing that came from this legislative session was the passage of a capital bill to take care of our deteriorating roads and infrastructure. But even that program is tainted by the expansion of gaming required to pay for it. The legalization of video poker and the advent of Internet gaming are not things of which this state should be proud.

I believe the Legislature will be reconvening to deal with the budget shortfall. I also suspect that between now and then, there will be tremendous pressure placed on legislators to pass an income tax increase. In fact, that is already occurring.

It is unfortunate, however, that very little discussion has occurred relative to our need to live within our means, stop implementing new programs, and reform existing programs in order to meet the needs of our citizens. True reform is needed to gain the trust of taxpayers in Illinois. Without reform, we will continue to drown in a sea of unnecessary spending, negating our ability to pay our bills.

At this time, the state is operating on a budget that does not pay its bills in a timely fashion, grows some programs, sweeps funds, and grossly under-funds many programs vital to citizens throughout the state. We have been in this situation before, and like before, I believe we will find a way to keep these crucial services operating.

Legislators will soon be returning to Springfield to debate these and other issues. I will do my utmost to represent you and all of the people of this great state. My decisions will be based on the best information available and not on politics or emotions. That is why you have elected and re-elected me to serve you.  Thank you for your trust.