State Senator Mattie Hunter had much to say in response to Gov. Pat Quinn's budget address on Wednesday.

Recognizing Illinois’ critical financial situation and the need to prioritize, Hunter elaborated upon some of her priorities in respect to the state’s fiscal plan.

Hunter took special interest in mental health, aging and human and health services funding in the governor’s budget plan.

“Overall funding for human services has been consistently slashed in previous budget proposals, and health care has also seen dramatic cuts,” Hunter said. "These represent important issues for me and the communities of the 3rd Senate District. I was glad to see his proposal emphasize these areas. Going forward, we must remain mindful of their significance when we craft a final budget.”

Another key issue the governor mentioned during his speech was hydraulic fracturing or “fracking.”

“Fracking is something that is going to affect the entire state on a variety of economic and environmental levels, and is something we need to carefully consider and not rush to judgment on,” said Hunter.

Hunter also spoke out in respect to the need to use the budget to combat poverty.

“The epidemic of poverty is not something that only affects Chicago’s south and west sides, but is the harsh reality of almost every region of the state,” Hunter said. “We cannot ignore this, and it’s time we start making provisions for moving toward relief of this epidemic.”

Furthermore, Hunter expressed disappointment in the governor's proposed cuts to K-12 education.

“I was generally optimistic about the governor’s message, until he touched upon the almost $400 million cut to K-12 education funding,” Hunter said. “For me, this is simply unacceptable.”

Hunter was additionally disheartened with the proposed reduced funding for breast and cervical cancer screenings, as well as HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment.

"These are issues that I have been passionate about throughout my legislative career. I’m looking forward to conversation with my colleagues about restoring funding to these programs,” said Hunter.

“The governor has made his proposal, but this is just the beginning,” Hunter said. “Now it’s time to start the negotiation process.”

The Illinois Senate is now charged with approving and passing a budget plan for FY 2014.