This is my formal testimony before the Senate Appropriation Committee this morning.
The Arc of Illinois opposes the Proposed State Budget.
The Arc of Illinois represents the 220,000 infants, children and adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families in Illinois. Statewide, fifty-five disability organizations and over 10,000 individual members support the good work of The Arc.
We realize that the Governor, his team, legislators and the state face major challenges, but we cannot cut our way out of this state budget crisis. Disability Services, Special Education and all of Human Services cannot sustain the lack of a state budget. We are witnessing the severe damage of important safety net services.
We need new revenue and a responsible state budget that protects powerless individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
Tony Paulauski
Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@thearcofil.org