“Today the Governor painted a very realistic picture of both the progress we’ve recently made and the serious challenges we still face,” said Representative Frese (R-Quincy). “I agree that the pace of reform has been slow, and that’s frustrating. The lack of an agreement on a responsible, balanced budget is unacceptable. But we have made a start in implementing needed efficiencies, and in cutting some red tape that will help support employers that create jobs. In recent months all four legislative leaders, including Speaker Madigan, have spoken on the need for change, and that is certainly reason to be hopeful that we will be able to work together this spring on compromise solutions. Our challenges are serious, but they’re not insurmountable if we’re all working together.”