State Rep. Evans says Gov. Rauner’s Annual Budget Address Failed to Address Some of the Most Significant Concerns in Neighborhoods he Represents

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Rep. Marcus Evans, D-Chicago, response to Gov. Bruce Rauner’s annual budget address:

“Today the governor addressed the people of Illinois but some people were left out of his speech. The governor failed to address some of the most significant concerns of people in the neighborhoods I represent. He failed to mention funding programs or creating initiatives that advocate and create opportunities for black men and women on the south side of Chicago. The governor has continued to neglect black communities and the needs of our people. The governor failed to talk about a plan to further develop and growth struggling communities or new investments in these areas. He talked about funding for our schools but there was no mention of more funding for Chicago State University, or early childhood development and day care programs. All of these factors play a vital role in the standard of living for minority communities.

“Though the governor failed to acknowledge black communities in his speech, it is my hope that going forward he will include us in his agenda.

“The governor brought up plans and developments for infrastructure in our state, but our roads continue to crumble. As the new chairman of the Transportation: Regulation, Roads & Bridges Committee, I intend to take a lead role in helping pass legislation that will improve our state’s infrastructure. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to move Illinois forward.”

Evans has been a leading voice in the General Assembly for poor and minority communities on the south side of Chicago. He has pushed for more funding for programs and education at all levels.