March 9, 2010

On February 17th, 14 staff and 40 participants from Heartland Alliance's Mental Health and Addiction Services and Supportive Housing programs joined about 4,000 Responsible Budget Coalition supporters for a "We Can't Wait" rally at the Capitol in Springfield. Heartland Alliance is a vocal supporter, as well as steering committee member, of the Responsible Budget Coalition (RBC), a diverse coalition which is advocating for a revenue increase in order to address our state budget crisis and the toll it levies on human service providers.

During the rally, speakers from across the state, representing a wide range of issues and programs, shared with the crowd why they can't wait for a responsible budget and thanked those legislators who have shown support for House Bill 174 (HB174) – the bill which will increase state revenue and help those who cannot afford it.  Following the RBC action in the morning, Heartland Alliance staff and program participants talked to legislators about the importance of preventing further cuts to human services and urged them to support HB174. Collectively, Heartland Alliance staff and participants spoke directly with 7 legislators and were able to leave information for over 20 others.

Gov. Quinn releases his budget proposal on March 10th. With Illinois facing close to a $13 billion deficit, the proposal will most likely include significant cuts to human services. The Governor has also indicated he will include new revenue sources in his proposal to help close this gap. Regardless of whether the Governor does propose a revenue increase, Heartland Alliance will continue to fight for a responsible budget which addresses our state's historic budget crises and serves those same populations represented at the budget rally last month.

In order for HB174 to continue to gain momentum and support, we need your help! Help us keep up the pressure on legislators by calling or visiting their offices, writing letters to the editor, and taking part in rallies like the one held last month. In addition, talk to your family and friends about the size of our budget problem, Heartland Alliance's advocacy work, and the need for a responsible budget.

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