SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III released the following statement after voting for the Fiscal Year 2026 budget:

“In light of the federal administration, this year’s balanced budget stays true to our commitment to fiscal responsibility – prioritizing the needs of the working class and our most vulnerable populations. With the uncertainty in Washington, health care is a top priority now more than ever.

“When we put people first, we can reach our economic and academic goals. I’ve been committed to ensuring we make the necessary investments in our education system while prioritizing educators and students. We made a commitment to adequately fund our schools, and that’s what this budget does.”