Public health officials in Chicago are calling on state lawmakers to craft a responsible public health budget.

Last week Illinois Governor Pat Quinn vetoed a budget bill that would have severely cut into human services, including public health. But Commissioner Dr. Terry Mason says in spite of that veto, cuts like those proposed by lawmakers would endanger his department's ability to fight infectious diseases.

MASON: There will be 8,000 fewer case investigations of such infections as salmonella, e. coli, hepatitis, meningitis, rabies, MRSA, and swine flu. Yes, that’s right, swine flu.

Public health officials say lawmakers need to work out a budget compromise with Governor Quinn by July 14th. That's when lawmakers are expected back in Springfield for more budget discussions.