SPRINGFIELD — After the Illinois State Senate passed the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget on Saturday, State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) released the following statement:

“At a time when uncertainty at the federal level threatens the well-being of our most vulnerable residents, we in Illinois are choosing to lead with compassion and purpose. This budget prioritizes those most in need by preserving critical human services, increasing access to health care and investing in communities that have long been left behind.

“Equitable access to health care remains a fundamental need, especially for those facing systemic barriers. This budget increases support for services that help keep people healthy and safe – from investments in mental health to delivering vital care in underserved areas of Illinois by bringing total state support for Federally Qualified Health Centers to $40 million.

“I’ve spent the last few months in Springfield advocating for criminal justice reform across Illinois, and tonight that activism culminated with significant allocations for community-based violence prevention programs. We must address the systemic issues in our criminal justice system through initiatives like re-entry programs, reducing recidivism and promoting trust between communities and our criminal justice system.

“I’m also proud to have worked with other legislators in the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus to negotiate $40 million for the Reimagine Public Safety grant program. Investments in restorative justice, prevention programs and intervention programs are what help the state address the root causes of violence in communities, specifically gun violence, and reduce harm for residents.

“In my position as chair of the Senate Labor Committee, my focus on laborers across the state helped secure investments in business recruitment and development and workforce training. A skilled, productive workforce is a major driver of economic success – fostering sustainable growth, improving living standards and enhancing the well-being of our communities.”