SPRINGFIELD –It’s no secret Illinois faces a looming budget crisis. State Sen. Bill Cunningham is deeply concerned about the effects massive budget cuts could have on Illinois residents’ safety.

“As the former Chief of Staff for Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart, I know firsthand the importance of fully funding our criminal justice system. The proposed $78 million cut from the Illinois State Police budget would be absolutely devastating to the safety of Illinois residents,” Cunningham said.

Under the proposed cuts, the Illinois State Police would be forced to lay off 450 troopers and close all forensic labs in the state.

“Illinois State Police troopers patrol our highways daily protecting our families. Forensic labs perform vital tests on evidence, like rape kits, allowing law enforcement to prosecute potentially violent criminals. If the ISP is forced to drastically cut its budget, our entire criminal justice system will be in disarray. Cutting services and allowing criminals to run loose is no way to govern.”