Metro East Sun

Illinois House Republicans have expressed concern following the announcement by the Pritzker Administration of a projected $3.2 billion budget deficit for Fiscal Year 2026. The Republicans have criticized the state’s budgeting process, citing reliance on temporary revenue sources and tax increases in previous fiscal years.

Despite a $1 billion tax increase in FY25, state agencies are now being asked to propose cuts to programs and operations to address the significant deficit. The Republicans argue that this situation could have been avoided if fiscal discipline had been exercised and their concerns heeded.

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.”

The major cost drivers identified include Medicaid expansions, increased education funding, public safety reforms under the SAFE-T Act, human services programs, and rising costs related to group health insurance and contracts. While acknowledging these initiatives meet real needs, they were implemented without sustainable funding plans.

Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain remarked on past warnings about spending outpacing revenue growth: “These warnings were dismissed by the Governor, who resorted to name-calling... Yet, the fiscal reality we cautioned against has now come to pass.”

Republicans have long voiced concerns over state spending practices. Deputy Minority Leader Norine Hammond commented on taxpayers bearing burdens due to mismanagement: “It is clear that the supermajority’s reckless spending practices have caught up with them.”

Assistant Deputy Leader Amy Elik highlighted specific budgetary tactics used previously: "Republicans specifically called out gimmicks used to balance FY25 budget... These irresponsible practices have created the fiscal cliff we now face."

As lawmakers conclude their legislative veto session in Illinois House, they will reconvene for a Lame Duck Session early next year.