Illinois House Speaker Denies Promising $150 Million to Chicago Schools

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel Chris Welch denied promising $150 million in additional state funding to Chicago Public Schools (CPS), stating he only committed to fighting for school funding across the state. The dispute emerged after the Chicago Board of Education voted to pass a budget that includes the $150 million in unapproved funds.

Board members backed by the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) supported the budget inclusion. The CTU had previously circulated video of Welch's remarks to teachers facing layoffs, which led to the budget assumption. While CTU leadership remains optimistic that the funding can be secured, CPS officials warned that a lack of funds could lead to midyear budget cuts.

Securing the increase would require the support of three-fifths of state lawmakers, including representatives from downstate Illinois. Some board members, including Jennifer Custer, argued that the budget should only include existing funds rather than anticipated amounts.