“Governor Pritzker may be touting a balanced budget after a miraculous finding of $1.5 billion in state revenue 24 hours ahead of the budget address, but a closer examination reveals we’re still in a budget deficit and our small and midsize manufacturers can’t afford to bear the burden.
“We all know our budget is not as balanced as it’s being sold and it’s time we examine inefficiencies within state operations and make the tough cuts that are necessary for a sustainable future. Our members operate on lean budgets, improving efficiency and delivering high-quality American-made products. Our state decision makers could learn a thing or two from the financial discipline practiced by Illinois’ small and midsize manufacturers.
“In recent weeks, we’ve been encouraged by the major developments at the federal level aimed at reducing waste and lowering budgets. Those actions proved it’s not just essential, but it’s possible, and Illinois lawmakers should follow suit instead of fighting against it.
“TMA calls on state government leaders to reject policies that create an undue burden on employers and to prioritize pro-growth measures. For manufacturers, rising costs due to excessive taxes and regulations make it harder to expand operations, invest in their workforce, and create new jobs. We must aim to be a state that fosters opportunity, not stifles it.”
About TMA: Founded in 1925, TMA is an independent trade association exclusively funded by industry and solely focused on small and midsize manufacturers. TMA has nearly 900 members representing approximately 39,000 manufacturing employees and more than 27 million square feet of manufacturing plant. More information at www.tmaillinois.org
