Peoria Standard

Illinois House Republicans have expressed concern over the Pritzker Administration's announcement of a projected $3.2 billion budget deficit for fiscal year 2026. The lawmakers have criticized the state's budget process, particularly noting reliance on temporary solutions and tax increases during the past fiscal year.

Despite an increase in taxes by $1 billion in FY25, the administration is now seeking to address the deficit by asking state agencies to propose program and operation cuts. House Republicans believe this situation could have been avoided if fiscal discipline had been exercised and their concerns heeded. They argue that unsustainable spending was supported by temporary federal funds from the COVID-19 pandemic and other non-recurring revenue sources.

House Minority Leader Tony McCombie stated, "House Republicans support the ongoing budget review process led by the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB). However, we urge the Administration to share the results of these exercises transparently with legislators and appropriation committees."

Key cost drivers identified include Medicaid expansions such as free healthcare for migrants, increased K-12 education funding, expanded early childhood programs, public safety reforms under the SAFE-T Act, human services programs, rising group health insurance costs, and obligations under the AFSCME contract. While acknowledging these initiatives address real needs, Republicans criticize their implementation without a long-term funding plan.

Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain remarked on past warnings about excessive spending: “For years, House Republicans have warned that the Majority Party’s insatiable appetite for spending would outpace the state’s revenue growth.” He noted that these warnings were dismissed by Governor Pritzker who labeled them as "carnival barkers" and "doom grifters."

Deputy Minority Leader Norine Hammond commented on taxpayers bearing consequences due to what she termed reckless spending practices: “It is clear that the supermajority’s reckless spending practices have caught up with them."

Assistant Deputy Leader Amy Elik pointed out specific budgeting maneuvers used previously: “Republicans specifically called out gimmicks used to balance FY25 budget...using FY24 surplus funds...diverting Road Fund dollars...relying on one-time Personal Property Replacement Tax (PPRT) revenues.”

As Illinois House concludes its legislative veto session, lawmakers will reconvene for a Lame Duck Session early next year.