EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Comptroller Leslie Munger paid a visit to an East St. Louis social service program to point out the harm the state’s budget impasse is doing.
The Belleville News-Democrat reports that during a Wednesday visit to the Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House, Munger said helping those in need is important to her.
Munger, a Republican appointed by Gov. Bruce Rauner to replace the late Judy Baar Topinka, encouraged people to call legislators to encourage them to pass a balanced budget for the fiscal year that began July 1.
The lack of a budget is affecting the comptroller’s ability to pay the state’s bills. Munger noted payment delays resulted in the state paying $57 million in late fees last year.
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House helps 7 to 17-year-olds with academics and life skills. Executive Director Bill Kreeb says the budget impasse is hurting the group’s services to children.