Courtesy of https://www.flickr.com/photos/yodudedan/
Courtesy of https://www.flickr.com/photos/yodudedan/

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois House Democrats have sent a clear message to Gov. Bruce Rauner that they disagree with his proposed cuts to human services in next year’s budget.

The $11 billion measure would cut Medicaid by $1.5 billion and also reduce mental health and addiction treatment programs.

Not one single vote was cast in favor of the measure. Democrats who control the House cast the “no” votes, with the entire Republican caucus voting “present.” The final vote total was 0-67-45.

Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan says the vote was intended to “facilitate consideration” of next year’s budget.

Rauner has left the door open to new revenue sources but the Republican also wants lawmakers to approve his pro-business priorities.

House Human Services Appropriations Chairman Greg Harris says Rauner’s proposal attempts to balance the budget “on the backs of the most vulnerable.”

 

 

 

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