SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) released the following statement in response to the governor’s proposed budget address Wednesday:

“Here in Illinois, agriculture drives our economy. As chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I hope to see continued investments in our farmers and agriculture education as we work through the budget process.

“Education has always been a top priority of mine. This proposal includes essential investments into early childcare education to set children up to be lifelong learners and put them on a path to great success. We have to remove the barriers families face when deciding if they can send their kids to school or put food on the table. A strong investment in early childhood education can set up our youth for a brighter tomorrow.

“Illinois is home to a number of elite higher education institutes. I believe that the proposed increase in funding for the MAP grant program will help make college more affordable for working families.

“Additionally, investing in alternative opportunities for students after high school provides more workforce training to start a career in the trades and ensures our community’s workforce is set up to tackle the jobs of the future. Investments in our infrastructure to rebuild Illinois brings jobs and economic development – this is a win for all.

“The proposed budget sets a framework for us to begin budget negotiations. I look forward to working with my colleagues and be a voice for the agriculture industry, Illinois’ education system and working families across the state.”