Pritzker issues executive order directing agencies to save more in 2026 over Trump policies

CHICAGO — Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker issued an executive order Tuesday directing state agencies to identify up to 4% of general fund appropriations next year and limit hiring and non-essential spending.

Pritzker blames President Trump’s “reckless economic policies” for the move.

President Trump and Pritzker repeatedly target each other on social media and the president previously threatened to send the National Guard to Chicago despite crime trending down.

“Illinois has built a strong economy and proven its fiscal responsibility, but Trump’s disastrous policies threaten to undo that progress,” said Gov. Pritzker. “Trump and Congressional Republicans sealed one of the largest wealth transfers in American history, stripping health care, food assistance, and other essential supports for working families to fund permanent tax breaks for the wealthy. At the same time, tariffs are hurting our farmers and businesses, slowing job growth, and driving up costs for Illinois families. I’m taking executive action to mitigate the impact of Trump’s economic policies on our state finances, maintain critical services, and preserve our economic stability.”

The order includes the following, per Pritzker’s office.

• Conduct immediate budget reviews to identify efficiencies and reductions.
• Identify up to 4% of General Funds appropriations for FY26 reserves to reinforce state finances.
• Limit non-essential spending, purchases, and travel.
• Review all hiring decisions and prioritize only essential roles.
• Propose programmatic changes or appropriation transfers if FY26 budget shortfalls emerge.

Agencies must submit reports on their progress to the Governor’s Office within 30 days.

The executive order takes effect immediately and does not affect pension payments and K-12 school funding. Additionally, offices outside of the governor’s authority, like legislative, judicial and other constitutional offices, will not be impacted.