This session, I listened to newly-elected Governor Bruce Rauner outline problems Illinois faces in both his State of State and Budget Addresses. I was happy to hear he wants bipartisanship; however, hearing his plan to balance the budget on the backs of our most disadvantaged residents was disappointing.

The governor proposed devastating cuts to services that put people to work and keep our state running. He plans to eliminate necessary programs and make life challenging for low- to middle-income families.

Your opinion is vital to helping us create a balanced and compassionate budget.

Please take my budget survey and share your stories of how budget cuts will affect you and your family.

Senate Majority Caucus Whip Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) took the oath of office today to begin a new four-year term representing the 3rd Senate District. She issued the following statement:

“I am proud to have the continued opportunity to serve the residents of the 3rd Senate District. We face challenges this year but I will continue fighting for public health, reforming the Department of Children and Family Services and making sure our criminal justice system is fair,” Hunter said.

State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) issued the following statement welcoming new Gov. Bruce Rauner to office and applauding outgoing Gov. Pat Quinn on his accomplishments in office.

“Governor Pat Quinn dedicated nearly a decade to promoting equality for African Americans, women and the LGBT communities. He has worked to improve the quality of life for struggling families and helped Illinois become as progressive as it is today. I will miss his contributions to our state,” said Hunter, Majority Caucus Whip.

State elected officials heard testimony this week regarding abuses at DCFS residential facilities. The Joint Senate and House Committee hearing is to be the first of several such hearings, a move led by Senate Majority Caucus Whip Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago).

"We made strides by inviting everyone from the agency director to the children the agency serves to discuss this issue from all sides. This was just the beginning. We will hold several hearings until we find legislative solutions to radically change DCFS," Hunter said.