NONPROFIT, SOCIAL SERVICE PAYMENTS REMAIN PRIORITY

Comptroller continues to aid most vulnerable

CHICAGO - Comptroller Leslie Geissler Munger released the following statement Wednesday in response to a Federal Court order involving the Ligas Consent Decree impacting services for people with developmental disabilities:

"I appreciate the Court's recognition of the difficult challenge we face in making necessary payments in light of Illinois' continued failure to pass a balanced budget.

"My priority remains to ensure that organizations serving our elderly, children and other most vulnerable residents take precedence when it comes to state payments. As a longtime volunteer and former Board member for an organization serving the intellectually and developmentally disabled, I know firsthand the hardship that is caused when payments don't arrive as scheduled, and I will do everything in my power to lead the state in keeping its promises to those most in need.

"In the absence of a balanced budget for this fiscal year, my office will continue to work to meet the payment timelines set by the Courts despite the state's limited resources.

"To be clear: taxpayers deserve better than government by Court Order. Ultimately, we can best serve Illinois families, businesses and organizations by passing a balanced budget that includes reforms that will allow us to become more competitive and grow our economy so we can put people back to work and fund critical services."

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