Come talk to us about state budget

As the General Assembly begins its spring legislative session, Illinois faces serious budget challenges. Lawmakers and the governor will have to make difficult decisions to close a deficit that fiscal experts project to be at least $750 million for the budget year that begins July 1.

As state representatives for the 44th and 56th legislative districts, we are holding a regional hearing on the state budget to take place at 6:30 p.m. March 17 at the Prairie Center for the Arts Theater, located at 201 Schaumburg Court in Schaumburg.

The purpose of this hearing is to bring greater transparency to the state budget process while giving local residents a voice in shaping state budget decisions.

Testimony will come from people representing social service agencies, local governments, health care facilities, school districts, colleges, labor unions, taxpayers, business groups and civic organizations.

Together we will shape a responsible state budget that maintains the state's commitment to the services that residents rely on.

State Rep. Fred Crespo

Hoffman Estates

State Rep. Paul Froehlich

Schaumburg