Springfield, IL - Governor Rod Blagojevich unveiled his Fiscal Year 2008 Budget plan today before the General Assembly. Highlighted in the address was the Governor's "Illinois Covered" healthcare plan, a Tax Fairness Plan, and a record-setting proposal for education funding.

"This was a very ambitious budget plan set forth by the Governor today," said Senator Michael Frerichs (D-Gifford). "The proposed plan is a lot to digest initially, but it is a promising starting point for us to work from."

The budget's record-high education funding level calls for a projected $10 billion over the next four years, including $1.5 billion in newly allocated funds for this year alone. The increase is nearly three times larger than any other in state history.

"It is great to see more resources being allocated for educational purposes and I am looking forward to hearing all the details," said Frerichs who is a member of the Senate's Appropriations III Committee."Ideally a more substantial amount of funding would have been set aside for higher education. A 1.9% increase in each university's base operating budget is a start, but I think we can do better to cover the increasing operating costs our universities are facing."

In addition, Frerichs noted his support for a proposal presented earlier in the year that eliminates the state sales tax on textbooks for college students. "This is a real opportunity to provide some much need relief for students who are paying the growing cost of textbooks."

While Frerichs is pleased with many of the Governor's proposals, he remains concerned about some revenue plans such as the leasing of the state's lottery.

"I applaud several of the Governor's goals, but I believe they add up to a budget plan that will be a lot to tackle," said Frerichs. "I will be asking tough questions during the next few months."