Thursday, February 17, 2011
 
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Bomke: Quinn's budget puts spending at record level

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[February 17, 2011]  SPRINGFIELD -- In response to Gov. Pat Quinn's annual budget address, state Sen. Larry Bomke, R-Springfield, is stressing a need for reduced spending and better management of state finances. The Springfield senator says the governor's budget puts spending at an all-time high and relies on borrowing to make that spending possible.

"First and foremost, Illinois needs to reduce spending to help bridge the budget gap. Spending reductions have to be a priority," Bomke said.

On top of a $7 billion tax increase and a $4 billion pension borrowing plan, Quinn has requested borrowing an additional $8.75 billion.

Bomke notes that the borrowed money will be used to increase state spending by $1.7 billion but will still leave the proposed budget spending more than it has. The budget spends $35.4 billion but takes in only $33.9 billion.

"I was pleased to hear that the governor is willing to address workers' comp reform," Bomke said.

While Bomke says Quinn's efforts to cut around $1 billion are commendable, the governor has yet to address the things that contribute most to state spending, including state pensions and health insurance.

"There is still a great deal to be done to get Illinois back on the road to fiscal health," Bomke said.

[Text from file sent on behalf of Sen. Larry Bomke by Illinois Senate Republican staff]

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