SPRINGFIELD — Following Governor Pritzker’s annual budget and state of the state address on Wednesday, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“This year’s budget proposal addresses several key issues affecting residents, including public safety, equitable health care and criminal justice reform. As discussions move forward, it will be important to ensure our final budget supports working families, strengthens communities and expands equitable health care access.

“Public safety is not just about responding to crime, but about preventing it and strengthening the foundation of our communities. The proposal includes funding for violence prevention programs, as well as a $40 million investment for the Reimagine Public Safety Act. These efforts aim to support programs aimed at intervention and prevention, with the goal of improving community safety over time.

“Equally important is expanding health care access to certify no one is left behind, particularly in historically underserved communities. Health outcomes are deeply tied to social factors, and we must address the gaps preventing individuals from getting the care they need. In the governor’s proposal, an investment of nearly $30 million for 3.5 million Illinoisans with medical needs, including 785,000 adults eligible through the Affordable Care Act, shows we are committed to supporting efforts that improve access and affordability for all residents.

“This budget also continues to focus on addressing the systemic challenges in our criminal justice system, with support for re-entry programs and restorative justice. These are important steps, but work remains to be done to build a more effective and equitable system.

“In the months ahead, I look forward to working with the governor and my colleagues to ensure the budget is aligned with the needs of working families and continues to move Illinois toward a safer, healthier and more just future for all.”