SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood) released the following statement in response the governor outlining his proposal for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget:

“As we shape our state's budget, we must focus on policies that improve life for all Illinois residents, tackle our communities' most pressing challenges and build lasting economic strength. Funding to continue to create the Illinois Department of Early Childhood represents our commitment to a comprehensive, trauma-informed system that addresses the varied needs of our youngest citizens.

"Education funding is an investment in tomorrow. I remain committed to increasing K-12 education resources so every student can access quality-learning opportunities. This means directing adequate support to under-resourced schools and backing programs that close achievement gaps.

“While I am proud to see the governor’s proposed budget prioritize education, more must be done. That is why I am calling for funding to make our higher education system for fair and equitable. Education isn't just one stage of life. It's a continuum – from early childhood through college and beyond. We need to fund it that way – which I will fight for this funding throughout the budget process.”