Maybe budget is affecting all of us

We are now moving into the fifth month without a state budget. The governor released funds to keep schools open because it is the responsibility of the state to fund schools. Although many of you may not be feeling the impact of no budget, maybe it is time to take notice since the media lost interest with this story going on for way too long.

There are cuts happening and programs being shut down. A few examples are the Adult Education and Family Literacy Programs at College of DuPage which serves more than 4,000 adults in DuPage County annually, programs serving children with disabilities and autism, and after school programs. Many of these programs are staffed by volunteers, but need a place to meet and a coordinator who is paid. Other programs are also being cut, and most of them hurt the most vulnerable: children, people with disabilities and seniors, those who may not have a voice. What was once cut back is now being ended, and looking to the future, how much cost will be incurred to reinstate programs, or will they just be gone forever?

Is it ethical for the governor to link his "reform legislation" to the state budget? Is it realistic to hand legislators the budget the day of the vote without time for them to read and digest it? And by the way, did you know that to get your next reminder that your license tag is up for renewal you need to register with the Secretary of State's office to get an email with information on obtaining your new tag and proof of registration? No more reminders by mail. Hmmm. Maybe this budget thing is starting to impact all of us and we need to demand a budget, no strings attached.

Roberta Wheatley

Glen Ellyn