Governor's Budget Proposal Strengthens Commitment to Public Safety

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today proposed a Fiscal Year 2003 budget of $383 million for the Illinois State Police (ISP), including funds to train 100 new troopers and to decrease backlogs at state police forensic labs.

"This budget reflects my commitment for Illinois to realize the full potential of DNA technology as a law enforcement and crime solving tool," Governor Ryan said. "With this budget, the state police will be positioned to erase a backlog which stood at nearly 3,000 cases just two years ago." Highlights of the FY 2003 budget include funds to continue the initiative begun last year to hire 80 forensic scientists and evidence technicians, and $2.3 million for outsourcing DNA cases while new scientists are in training.

"We live in a different world now after the terrorist attacks," Governor Ryan said. "Ensuring state police staffing is at optimum levels is an essential part of keeping our state safe."

Ryan's spending package also contains $109,500 for the second year of funding for the implementation of the statewide voice communications system, STARCOM21, and more than $24 million for capital costs. The new communications system will be operational by fall 2004, replacing the current system and equipment.

"Funding for troopers, forensics, and law enforcement communications demonstrates that public safety continues to be one of Governor Ryan's highest priorities," said ISP Director Sam W. Nolen.