Extension program deserves funding

Many people representing the University of Illinois Extension program attended a budget forum that I hosted with area legislators in April. Many requested that an estimated $18 million in crucial funding for statewide agricultural programs be released as was appropriated in the fiscal year 2008 budget. More than 2.5 million Illinois residents participate in Extension programs each year, including nearly 300,000 who participate in 4-H youth programs.

After listening to the strong advocacy for this program, it was easy to understand the benefits of such a program and the impact it has had on its participants. I stand in strong support of the release of the funds already appropriated. The impassioned residents who spoke on the issue were not overlooked. Earlier this month, funding was released from the Illinois Department of Agriculture to the U of I Extension for $12.8 million in county board matching funds and $5 million in Cook County Initiative funds. The Extension is expected to receive payments in the next few weeks.

While funding for the Extension's 4-H youth development still remains in question, I believe the funding that is being released is a positive success story. The people who spoke on this issue made a difference by expressing their concerns so that we could continue to put pressure on those in leadership to release funds entitled to the Extension. Please don't hesitate to contact your state legislator with your concerns. It only takes one voice to change the course of a situation.

Sandra Pihos

Glen Ellyn

State Representative

42nd District