Metro East Sun

Amy Elik argues the state of Illinois’ financial shortcomings run far deeper than issues raised by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a CPA and auditor, I understand the deep fiscal hole Illinois politicians have created,” Elik, who is running against incumbent state Rep. Monica Bristow (D-Alton) in the 111th District, told the Metro East Sun. “The state should receive its fair share of federal funds to fight the coronavirus pandemic, but legislators must adopt true reforms to fix our broken and unaffordable pension system. For too long, Springfield politicians have avoided reforming our pension and property tax systems. Now, as the FY2021 budget is created, legislators must take action.”

Local Democratic leaders are now requesting $41 billion in federal funding as a way of offsetting damage caused by the virus, with Illinois Senate President Don Harmon recently penning a letter to members of Illinois' Congressional Delegation laying claim to the funds as a way of helping the state recover.

In the letter, Harmon drew special attention to an Illinois Institute of Government report that predicts the state could lose as much as $14 billion in revenues over the next year given current climate. Among specific requests, Harmon indicates he is seeking upward of $10 billion for the state’s long-troubled pension plans.

“State officials need to attack Illinois' economic crisis with the same vigor they are putting into defeating the coronavirus,” Elik said. “Pension reforms must be made without delay, and steps must be taken to grow our economy. Spending must be reduced as well, rather than relying on new taxes like the graduated income tax.”

In many cases, Elik argues Springfield has been its own worst enemy in terms of establishing a credible presence for itself.

“Corruption has cost the state not only financially, but also in the trust the public places in public officials,” she said. “The people of Illinois deserve trustworthy leaders who will spend their tax dollars for essential services and to protect our most-vulnerable citizens.”