Rep. Norine Hammond - Hammond introduced as Chief Budgeteer for House Republicans

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) introduced the House Republican’s budget team at a capitol press conference Tuesday morning.  The new House minority leader named Deputy Leader Norine Hammond (R-Macomb) as Chief Budgeteer for the caucus for the 103rd General Assembly as well as introducing Representative Amy Elik (R-Alton) as the Deputy Budgeteer.

“I am pleased that Deputy Leader Norine Hammond has accepted my appointment as Chief Budgeteer. Her in-depth experience in appropriations and policy makes her the perfect candidate for this important role,” said Leader Tony McCombie. “I have no doubt that she will work tirelessly to ensure that the budget benefits all citizens of Illinois and I look forward to the positive impact her input will have on the state. Furthermore, her dedication to serving the people of Illinois ensures that their needs and concerns will be considered in the budgeting process.”

As a member of the Higher Education Committee, Hammond has worked for increased funding for universities and community colleges throughout Illinois. She has successfully passed legislation to tackle the teacher shortage; keep Illinois students attending Illinois colleges and universities; and fairly fund public K-12 education. She has also been a strong advocate for procurement reform and other cost-cutting measures which keep dollars focused on strategic goals instead of overhead and administrative costs.

The House Republican budget team took time to discuss caucus priorities going into this year’s budget making process.

Attached are comments from Leader Hammond.