Governor JB Pritzker has unveiled his budget proposal for the next year as part of his State of the State address, which he delivered on Wednesday.  It comes as federal pandemic relief funds are set to run out for Illinois and other states.  The governor said there would be a slight increase in discretionary spending but also cuts to programs he began while in office.

Governor Pritzker highlighted some new programs his administration would implement.  They include the Building Up Illinois Development (BUILD) Plan, which he says will streamline new housing development and lower costs for buyers and renters.

The new budget calls for continued funding for its partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.  The administration’s goal is to bring the program to every county; it currently fully reaches all but 14 counties.

The full budget proposal can be read here.  Lawmakers and Governor Pritzker will have to come to an agreement on a spending plan by the end of May.