Dupage Policy Journal

Just before the statutory deadline on May 31, majority party legislators approved a budget for Fiscal Year 2026, marking a record $55.2 billion in spending. State Senator Seth Lewis (R-Bartlett) voted against the budget and its implementation documents.

Senator Lewis expressed his concerns through a statement: “At a time when Illinois families and small businesses can least afford it, I am disappointed that members of the majority party chose to move forward with a budget that raises taxes rather than relies on existing revenue. Families everywhere are tightening their belts. Shouldn’t state government do the same?"

He further criticized the budget's impact on services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities (IDD). "I am extremely concerned about this budget’s reduction in service hours for professionals who provide essential care to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities (IDD). These caregivers play a vital role in supporting some of the most vulnerable members of our communities," he stated. "I believe that one of government’s most important responsibilities is to ensure that those who need the most help receive it, and that includes ensuring there are an adequate number of professionals who care for them.”