SPRINGFIELD – Following Governor JB Pritzker’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal, State Senator Laura Fine (D-Glenview) issued the following statement:

“As chair of the Behavioral and Mental Health Committee and longstanding advocate for accessible and affordable mental health care services, I have spent my career working with providers and subject matter experts to deliver timely solutions to barriers impacting our communities, including insurance limitations that directly prevent patients from receiving necessary treatment. This budget takes steps to build on our existing investments in affordable mental health services, including funding for mental health services integrated with physical care as well as funding for in-state network Psychiatric Patient Treatment Facilities. The proposal continues to facilitate career pathways amidst our workforce shortages in health care fields through the Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce.

“Furthermore, the integrity of our state’s environmental landscape is a priority in this proposal, with funding to revitalize state parks, historic sites, and decrease air pollution through Electric Vehicle Rebate investments.

“This proposal serves as a good starting point toward achieving a balanced budget that moves the state forward. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the coming months to deliver legislative decisions that continue to invest in opportunities for progress and stability.”

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