Foster Praises State’s Stop-Gap Education Funding, Calls on the Governor to Sign a Budget

Aurora, IL – Today, less than two weeks after Congressman Bill Foster (IL-11) sent a letter to Governor Rauner urging him to take action to help Illinois students facing financial hardship due to the state's budget stalemate, the Governor has agreed to sign legislation that will provide relief.

State legislators have agreed to a measure that will provide $600 million to keep public colleges and universities open through the summer – including almost $170 million to fund scholarships for low-income students.

Today's action includes $20 million for Chicago State University – a school that serves predominantly low-income students, and was highlighted by Congressman Foster as being particularly hard hit by the lack of state funding.

"It's good to see Democrats and Republicans come together to do what is in the best interests of the students," Congressman Foster said. "This is a good first step, but much more needs to be done to address this issue. Lawmakers must continue working to pass, and the Governor must sign a full budget."