Funding Reform: Call-in Today

To address a revenue shortfall of about $13 billion, Governor Quinn's proposed 2010-11 budget reduces education funding by 17%. This will translate into millions of dollars lost to Berwyn Schools. Our three districts are already suffering from long delays in state payments ($1M+ is owed to District 100 alone). Kids, families and our community need a balanced, responsible budget solution.

BerwynCARES is asking our members to support a statewide call-in day TODAY, Tuesday, May 4 to urge legislators to raise new revenues to prevent devastating cuts to education. This fiscal crisis, brought on by a long-standing budget deficit and an economic downturn, cannot be solved without significant new revenue.

One option under consideration is HB174 a comprehensive tax-reform package that includes funding reform for education. It will devote 33 1/3% of new revenues to the Common School Fund that provides general state aide to K-12 education, particularly in low and middle income communities across the state. To read the Center for Tax & Budget Accountability Fact Sheet on HB174, Click Here.

Please ask our elected officials to support education funding reform! Voice your concerns about how proposed budget cuts will affect your family's future.

You can call 1-800-719-3020 to be connected to your legislators (AARP sponsored line) or call their district offices:

State Rep Michael Zalewski, 708-354-2121
State Sen. Louis Viverito, 708-430-2510
11th Senate & 21st Rep Dist: S of 27th between Harlem & East*

State Rep Elizabeth Hernandez, 708-222-5240
State Sen Martin Sandoval: 708-656-2002
12th Senate & 24th Rep Dist: W of Lombard between 19th & 26th*

State Rep LaShawn Ford, 773-378-5902
State Sen Kimberly Lightford, 708-343-7444
4th Senate & 8th Rep Dist: N of 19th between Harlem & Harvey*

State Rep Daniel J. Burke: 773-471-2299
State Sen Martin Sandoval: 708-656-2002
12th Senate & 23rd Rep Dist: 33rd to 39th between Wesley and Lombard*

*district boundaries are approximate. Visit the Board of Elections site to search districts by home address. If you call 800-719-3020 you will be prompted to enter your zip code.