On February 21, Governor Pritzker announced his proposed Fiscal Year 2025 budget that includes exciting investments in the new Department of Early Childhood, year two of the Smart Start Illinois initiative, and other important early childhood programs. However, the proposal falls short in a few key areas, with insufficient investment in vital programs that bolster access to support for young children. Read the We, the Village Coalition's Full Response to Governor Pritzker’s FY25 Budget Address to learn more.
Investments in the new Department of Early Childhood and year two of Smart Start Illinois are BIG priorities for early childhood advocates. However, Illinois must increase funds for the entire early childhood education and care system and make the investments outlined in SB3814/ HB5782!
In three easy steps, please send a letter to your lawmakers urging them to invest in Early Child Care and Education in FY25!
- Follow form instructions to review the message body. You can also add your own message if you like.
- Fill out your name, email, phone number, and address in the form.
- Click ‘Send Message’.
Thank you for taking action for Illinois’ youngest children today!