Following the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget, State Senator Steve Stadelman (D-Rockford) released the below statement:

“We’ve delivered another balanced budget that addresses Illinois’ challenges head on, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. I’m proud to support a budget that does not raise income or sales taxes, supports working men and women and boosts economic development in the Rockford-Belvidere area.”

Here’s how the Rockford region will benefit from the new spending plan:

• Increased funding for local K-12 schools. It’s important that every student in our community has access to a quality education and the resources they need to be successful.
• Major investments to local public transit, including funding for Chicago to Rockford passenger rail service, which is scheduled to begin in two years
• Provides Stellantis more flexibility to put a new vehicle product at the Belvidere Assembly plant, which has been idled for nearly two years.
• Provides funding for redevelopment efforts at the former Singer Mental Health Center.

“This budget is a product of careful considerations and negotiations that will continue to move our state and the Rockford region forward, while giving local residents the resources and support needed.”