Shimkus Among Congressmen Seeking Prevention of Governor Withholding Federal Funds

One of the tools Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has threatened to use to keep parts of the state from reopening before his Restore Illinois timetable allows is the withholding of Federal funds.

Local Congressman John Shimkus and four other downstate Republican Congressmen have sent a letter to Congressional leadership urging Congress to prevent governors from withholding Federal funds appropriated by Congress for local municipalities. The letter opposes withholding of the funds if the municipalities' businesses reopen in accordance with Federal health guidelines, but ahead of timelines outlined by states.

The letter read in part: "One of Illinois' great strengths is our regional diversity, and Illinoisans of all backgrounds have stepped up to slow the spread of COVID-19 and flatten the curve." The letter goes on: "That's why it's disappointing that Governor Pritzker threatened to withhold Federal funding that Congress appropriated to provide relief to those in need." The letter concludes: "We urge Congress to take action and stand ready to work with our colleagues to continue providing the Federal relief Illinois needs."