Pritzker hits the road to promote 'Smart Start Illinois' plan

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - Governor JB Pritzker is taking his "Smart Start Illinois" plan on the road.

The proposal would make historic investments in pre-school, childcare, early support, and early childhood facilities.

Gov. Pritzker introduced the spending plan during his state budget address on Wednesday.

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On Thursday, the governor visited learning centers in Springfield, East St. Louis, and Mount Vernon. The Democrat described how the proposal would make pre-school more readily available and affordable statewide.

"Beginning with a $250 million dollar investment, this multi-year plan will not only provide every Springfield child with access to a preschool program like this one, but do the same for every child across the state of Illinois," Pritzker said.

In addition, Smart Start Illinois calls for a $20 million investment for the Department of Human Services to revamp the payment system for childcare providers.