CHICAGO – Senate President John J. Cullerton released the following statement regarding Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s 2016 budget address.

“I join Mayor Emanuel in his efforts to both celebrate and protect our world-class city. We simply cannot ignore the painful reality that the city’s looming pension debt is threatening the financial stability of Chicago.  In the coming days, city and state leaders will be calling on Chicagoans to accept the challenges and financial obligations that come with maintaining the progress of the city that is the economic engine of Illinois.

In Springfield, I’m working to pass a plan that will provide financial relief for Chicago Public Schools, but there is still more work to do. I’m standing with Mayor Emanuel and his plan to move the city forward with increased investments from those who can afford them. I will join his efforts by sponsoring legislation that will enable the city to advance a property tax plan in a way that protects the neediest working families while we work toward a better future.”