Sangamon Sun

State Representative Charlie Meier of Okawville has voiced his opposition to the recently passed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget for Illinois. In a statement, Meier criticized the budget for its reliance on tax increases and borrowing from special funds to support long-term spending.

Meier expressed concerns about several aspects of the budget, including expenditures on illegal immigrants, pay raises for state legislators, and policies that he believes will increase energy and tax bills. He stated, “Once again, the budget has missed the mark, and hardworking Illinoisans will pay the price.”

The representative also highlighted what he perceives as partisan favoritism in funding allocations. “The Democrats have made sure that their Senators and Representatives get to use tax dollars paid by Illinoisans across the state for pork projects in their districts,” Meier remarked.

He called upon Governor Pritzker to veto the budget, citing its potential negative impact on working families. “Governor Pritzker has said he would veto any budget that negatively impacts working families. I look forward to him vetoing this budget,” Meier said.

Further criticisms were directed at how the budget might affect businesses in Illinois. Meier warned of adverse effects on local businesses and suggested that it could deter new businesses from entering the state. He also raised concerns about increased costs for basic needs like electricity.

Meier concluded with a stark prediction regarding population movement out of Illinois due to these fiscal policies: “The only jobs that will be coming to Illinois because of this budget will be the moving companies.”

Charlie Meier represents Illinois' 109th District, which includes parts of Bond, Clinton, Madison, St. Clair, and Washington counties.