Jones calls for practical budget solutions ahead of federal uncertainty

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) released the following statement after hearing the governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget proposal Wednesday:

“As uncertainty at the federal level continues to loom over states across our nation – especially Illinois – lawmakers must come together to prioritize funding decisions that affirm our commitment to supporting the working class and vulnerable populations.

“With our legislative work already underway, I’m dedicated to ensuring Illinois’ education and health care systems are put first this budget season. I’m glad to see continued investments in our state’s evidence-based funding model, ensuring our K-12 education system is grounded in equity for all and works to uplift our students and teachers. However, with current attacks on funding for safety-net hospitals, certifying residents’ access to quality health care is a priority now more than ever.”

Jones celebrates passage of monumental transit plan

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Emil Jones III released a statement following the passage of Senate Bill 2111, legislation to reform Chicago’s patchwork transit network and make transformational investments to address the public transit fiscal cliff:

“We have been working to transform Chicago’s transit system for years. Today, we prioritized people. This isn’t just a quick budget fix – this is a comprehensive, long-term solution.

“Residents asked for reliable, affordable, safe and accessible public transit and that’s exactly what we did.”

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Jones calls for immediate bipartisan action to prevent delay on SNAP benefits

CHICAGO – State Senator Emil Jones III is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Political gridlock has a price and our families are paying for it," said Jones (D-Chicago). “The federal administration and Congress must come together in order to stave off further consequences.”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 56,554 people in the district Jones represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Jones stresses that a long-term solution requires immediate federal intervention.

"Numbers and stats don’t tell the full story," said Jones. “Families are struggling to make ends meet now more than ever, even before the shutdown. The only path forward is swift and decisive action at the federal level."

Jones is coordinating with state officials and community organizations to prepare for potential disruptions and to ensure vulnerable populations have access to emergency food assistance.