Statement from Deputy Governor Sheila Nix

SPRINGFIELD - "Governor Blagojevich believes state spending should address people's most basic needs first.  Nothing is more basic than access to healthcare.  Because the budget passed by lawmakers failed to adequately fund healthcare, the Governor cut funding for pork projects and other less critical needs.  Some projects in the budget are worthwhile and we are interested in seeing some funded - but not at the expense of healthcare for families and mammograms for women.  If legislators want to find new sources of revenue to pay for projects and programs without raising taxes, we're happy to work with them."