By Jamey Dunn
Gov. Pat Quinn said today that he plans ask legislators to provide ideas for a new state capital construction plan.
Quinn said that he intends to ask the four legislative leaders to put together a special committee that would try to tackle the capital issue. He said he envisions a group of about 10 people. He said that the committee would operate much like the conference committee, which helped to break a stalemate on pension reform last year.
The current five-year capital plan, which was approved in 2009, is nearing an end.
The plan is funded through revenues generated by video poker machines in bars, truck stops and restaurants throughout the state and various increased fees and taxes. A new plan would likely require new revenues. “It is important to realize that the funding from the five-year [capital] plan that we adopted is, through this year, very strong, but in the future we’ve got to enhance it,” Quinn said in Springfield today.
Quinn would not point to any potential funding sources today. “We’ll engage with them very quickly,” he said of the committee. “There’s a lot of ideas. I think we need to explore each and every one.” But he said that he would not back any proposal to increase the tax on gasoline. “I think that’s a depleting resource. I think that using the gas tax to fund our future would not be a wise idea. I’m not for that.” At this point, the governor is not pushing for a bill to be approved by the end of the spring session. A member of his staff said lawmakers would likely be working on the issue throughout the year. However, the governor does want something in place to avoid a gap between the current capital bill and the next.
Quinn’s comments came at a news conference to unveil the Illinois Department of Transportation’s annual six-year plan. The $8.6 billion construction plan is focused on maintenance of the state’s existing infrastructure. IDOT Secretary Ann Schneider said that almost three-fourths of the spending would go toward maintenance. “This is a fiscally responsible program. We are not putting something out that the Department of Transportation and the state of Illinois cannot afford,” she said.
The plan will be funded with almost $7 billion in federal money and $1.16 billion in existing state funds. The rest of the money will come from local sources and the last of the funds allocated for roads and bridges in the existing capital plan, dubbed Illinois Jobs Now! by Quinn. Go to IDOT’s website for a partial list of the projects covered by the six-year plan.
Showing posts with label transportation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label transportation. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 09, 2014
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Attorney general issues warning about immigrant driver's license scams
By Jamey Dunn
Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s office is warning Illinois residents to avoid scams related to the state’s new driver’s licenses for undocumented residents.
Secretary of State Jesse White’s office began setting up appointments today for residents who are in the country illegally and interested in obtaining Temporary Visitor Driver’s Licenses. Currently, the only way to apply is by appointment. Applicants must be able to prove they have lived in the state for a year and that they are ineligible for a Social Security number. They will also have to pass the standard vision and driving test. The licenses will look different from standard license and cannot be used for identification for things like buying a gun or boarding a plane. They will cost $30 and expire after three years. Licenses are void if drivers do not carry liability insurance as required by law.
Applicants who make appointments this month and meet the requirements will begin receiving their licenses in December. Madigan said her office has already started to receive complaints from consumers who say that driving schools are asking for $1,000 for a universal driver’s license that they say is valid in most states. She said her office is also getting reports of a scam that claims to expedite the application process for a fee. “The only legitimate place you can apply for a temporary driver’s license is with the secretary of state’s office,” Madigan said in a written statement. “Other people who claim they can help get you a license or get it faster are only trying to scam you out of your money.” She warned residents not to pay any upfront fees to make an appointment to apply for a license and not to purchase a so-called universal license that claims to be valid in multiple states because there is “no such thing.” A news release from Madigan’s office also warns: “Beware of anyone promising to ‘clear your record’ and obtain a TVDL for you immediately. If you have previously had a driver’s license under a false Social Security number or had a DUI conviction in the past, you may still be eligible. ... However, you may need to comply with additional requirements before applying.” The release also notes that a “notario or notary public” is not qualified to issue the license; it can only be obtained from a secretary of state facility.
Applicants can set up an appointment by calling (855) 236-1155 or going to this website. According to the secretary of state’s office, qualified applicants will receive their licenses in the mail 15 to 20 days after their appointments.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan’s office is warning Illinois residents to avoid scams related to the state’s new driver’s licenses for undocumented residents.
Secretary of State Jesse White’s office began setting up appointments today for residents who are in the country illegally and interested in obtaining Temporary Visitor Driver’s Licenses. Currently, the only way to apply is by appointment. Applicants must be able to prove they have lived in the state for a year and that they are ineligible for a Social Security number. They will also have to pass the standard vision and driving test. The licenses will look different from standard license and cannot be used for identification for things like buying a gun or boarding a plane. They will cost $30 and expire after three years. Licenses are void if drivers do not carry liability insurance as required by law.
Applicants who make appointments this month and meet the requirements will begin receiving their licenses in December. Madigan said her office has already started to receive complaints from consumers who say that driving schools are asking for $1,000 for a universal driver’s license that they say is valid in most states. She said her office is also getting reports of a scam that claims to expedite the application process for a fee. “The only legitimate place you can apply for a temporary driver’s license is with the secretary of state’s office,” Madigan said in a written statement. “Other people who claim they can help get you a license or get it faster are only trying to scam you out of your money.” She warned residents not to pay any upfront fees to make an appointment to apply for a license and not to purchase a so-called universal license that claims to be valid in multiple states because there is “no such thing.” A news release from Madigan’s office also warns: “Beware of anyone promising to ‘clear your record’ and obtain a TVDL for you immediately. If you have previously had a driver’s license under a false Social Security number or had a DUI conviction in the past, you may still be eligible. ... However, you may need to comply with additional requirements before applying.” The release also notes that a “notario or notary public” is not qualified to issue the license; it can only be obtained from a secretary of state facility.
Applicants can set up an appointment by calling (855) 236-1155 or going to this website. According to the secretary of state’s office, qualified applicants will receive their licenses in the mail 15 to 20 days after their appointments.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Quinn signs bill to increase speed limit to 70 mph
By Jamey Dunn
Despite opposition from members of his own administration, Gov. Pat Quinn approved increasing the speed limit on some state highways to 70 miles per hour.
Senate Bill 2356 will increase the speed limit on divided four-lane highways from 65 to 70 miles per hour. Local officials in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Madison, McHenry, St. Clair and Will counties can vote to opt out of the increase. The new limit will also apply to Illinois tollways. However, the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority will have to power to designate other limits in some areas. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2014.
“This limited five miles-per-hour increase will bring Illinois’ rural interstate speed limits in line with our neighbors and the majority of states across America, while preventing an increase in excessive speeding,” Quinn said today in a prepared statement. “I encourage all motorists to continue to respect our traffic laws, avoid distractions and exercise common sense behind the wheel to protect the safety of themselves and others.”
The Illinois State Police oppose the change, and Quinn’s own transportation secretary lobbied against the legislation when it was up for consideration in the General Assembly. “The higher the speed limit, the more likely you are to be in a crash. And if you’re in a crash, the more likely you are to be killed,” Anne Schneider, secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation, said when the Illinois House was still considering the bill. Despite her stance, the bill passed both legislative chambers with bipartisan support. The new law will also lower the speed at which drivers can be charged with excessive speeding from 31 miles per hour over the limit to 26 miles per hour.
While Quinn may be swimming against the opposition of some in Illinois, he is going with the national flow — something that is pointed out twice in a news release issued by his office upon his signing of the bill. “Illinois joins 36 other states with speed limits of 70 mph or higher, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming.”
However, some national experts say the move toward higher speed limits does not necessarily indicate that they are safe. “The politics is that the public wants to go faster; they don't see it as a safety issue, so it's no surprise that legislatures have followed,” Jonathan Adkins, deputy executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association told the Associated Press last week. “Unlike with drunk driving and seat-belt use and even distracted driving ... the public just doesn't see speeding as a safety issue.”
On Friday, Quinn signed another bill that bans talking on hand-held cell phones while driving. The measure allows for the use of hands-free devices. That ban will also go into effect at the start of 2014.
Despite opposition from members of his own administration, Gov. Pat Quinn approved increasing the speed limit on some state highways to 70 miles per hour.
Senate Bill 2356 will increase the speed limit on divided four-lane highways from 65 to 70 miles per hour. Local officials in Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, Madison, McHenry, St. Clair and Will counties can vote to opt out of the increase. The new limit will also apply to Illinois tollways. However, the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority will have to power to designate other limits in some areas. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2014.
“This limited five miles-per-hour increase will bring Illinois’ rural interstate speed limits in line with our neighbors and the majority of states across America, while preventing an increase in excessive speeding,” Quinn said today in a prepared statement. “I encourage all motorists to continue to respect our traffic laws, avoid distractions and exercise common sense behind the wheel to protect the safety of themselves and others.”
The Illinois State Police oppose the change, and Quinn’s own transportation secretary lobbied against the legislation when it was up for consideration in the General Assembly. “The higher the speed limit, the more likely you are to be in a crash. And if you’re in a crash, the more likely you are to be killed,” Anne Schneider, secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation, said when the Illinois House was still considering the bill. Despite her stance, the bill passed both legislative chambers with bipartisan support. The new law will also lower the speed at which drivers can be charged with excessive speeding from 31 miles per hour over the limit to 26 miles per hour.
While Quinn may be swimming against the opposition of some in Illinois, he is going with the national flow — something that is pointed out twice in a news release issued by his office upon his signing of the bill. “Illinois joins 36 other states with speed limits of 70 mph or higher, including Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia and Wyoming.”
However, some national experts say the move toward higher speed limits does not necessarily indicate that they are safe. “The politics is that the public wants to go faster; they don't see it as a safety issue, so it's no surprise that legislatures have followed,” Jonathan Adkins, deputy executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association told the Associated Press last week. “Unlike with drunk driving and seat-belt use and even distracted driving ... the public just doesn't see speeding as a safety issue.”
On Friday, Quinn signed another bill that bans talking on hand-held cell phones while driving. The measure allows for the use of hands-free devices. That ban will also go into effect at the start of 2014.
Friday, August 16, 2013
Quinn signs ban on drivers using handheld cell phones
By Jamey Dunn
Starting next year, drivers will have to put down their cell phones before they get behind the wheel.
Gov. Pat Quinn today signed House Bill 1247, which bans the use of cell phones while driving, unless drivers use hands-free devices to talk. “Distracted driving is not only dangerous — it’s deadly,” Gov. Quinn said in a prepared statement. “Too many Illinois families have suffered because of accidents that could have been prevented. Anyone driving a car should be careful, responsive and alert behind the wheel. These new laws will save lives.”
Illinois joins 11 other states and the District of Columbia in banning phones behind the wheel. The state already prohibits texting while driving. The ban on chatting while driving will go into effect on January 1, 2014. “When people get behind the wheel, they have a responsibility to themselves and to others to drive safely,” Chicago Democratic Sen. John D’Amico, who sponsored the bill, said in a prepared statement. “When motorists are on the phone, they are not giving their full attention to the most important task they have. This law will help reduce traffic accidents and make Illinois roads safer.”
Drivers using hand-held cell phones are four times more likely to get in accidents that cause injuries according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. “We want drivers to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel,” Sen. John Mulroe, who sponsored the bill, said in a prepared statement. “The phone call can wait.”
Opponents say the ban is an overreach by government into people’s lives. “This kind of stuff is the ultimate, ultimate in Big Brother,” Rep. Mike Bost, a Murphysboro Republican, said when the bill passed in the House. Bost noted that drivers do many other things behind the wheel — such as applying makeup, disciplining children or eating — that can be distracting and dangerous. “I know it is dangerous, but there’s a lot of things that we do every day while driving in our cars that become dangerous. ... Where do we stop [on bans]?”
Starting next year, drivers will have to put down their cell phones before they get behind the wheel.
Gov. Pat Quinn today signed House Bill 1247, which bans the use of cell phones while driving, unless drivers use hands-free devices to talk. “Distracted driving is not only dangerous — it’s deadly,” Gov. Quinn said in a prepared statement. “Too many Illinois families have suffered because of accidents that could have been prevented. Anyone driving a car should be careful, responsive and alert behind the wheel. These new laws will save lives.”
Illinois joins 11 other states and the District of Columbia in banning phones behind the wheel. The state already prohibits texting while driving. The ban on chatting while driving will go into effect on January 1, 2014. “When people get behind the wheel, they have a responsibility to themselves and to others to drive safely,” Chicago Democratic Sen. John D’Amico, who sponsored the bill, said in a prepared statement. “When motorists are on the phone, they are not giving their full attention to the most important task they have. This law will help reduce traffic accidents and make Illinois roads safer.”
Drivers using hand-held cell phones are four times more likely to get in accidents that cause injuries according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. “We want drivers to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel,” Sen. John Mulroe, who sponsored the bill, said in a prepared statement. “The phone call can wait.”
Opponents say the ban is an overreach by government into people’s lives. “This kind of stuff is the ultimate, ultimate in Big Brother,” Rep. Mike Bost, a Murphysboro Republican, said when the bill passed in the House. Bost noted that drivers do many other things behind the wheel — such as applying makeup, disciplining children or eating — that can be distracting and dangerous. “I know it is dangerous, but there’s a lot of things that we do every day while driving in our cars that become dangerous. ... Where do we stop [on bans]?”
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Feds to bring more oversight to Metra
By Jamey Dunn
The federal government will provide more oversight for Chicago’s commuter rail service as the number of board members dwindles.
The action from the Federal Railroad Administration is just another development in the ongoing fallout from allegations of political influence being asserted over hiring decisions and contract terms at the agency. Alex Clifford, the former chief executive officer of METRA, has said that lawmakers, including House Speaker Michael Madigan, tried to wield clout over the agency. His claims come as the Regional Transit Authority has launched an audit of Clifford’s severance settlement, which could leave him with more than $700,000. Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer is investigating Clifford’s allegations, and Madigan has said publicly that he did nothing wrong.
After the resignations of four Metra board members — including former chair Brad O’Halloran — the board lacks enough members to name a new chair. U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin wrote a letter asking Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph Szabo to intervene while Metra’s “current leadership issues are being resolved.” Durbin wrote in the letter sent to Szabo earlier this month: “I know the professional, non-political staff at Metra is dedicated to running this railroad in the safest way possible, however the lack of permanent leadership at the board and management levels creates a situation where accountability is hard to find and priorities like safety could become neglected.” In response, the Federal Railroad Administration will increase the number of train inspections and increase oversight of Metra’s testing and inspection program. The administration also plans to communicate directly with top Metra officials, reach out to labor leaders and attend meetings between labor and management. “Safety is our first priority,” Szabo said in a written statement. “Historically, Metra has had an exemplary safety record, in large measure due to the dedicated career personnel who oversee and perform the daily operations. Our goal is to ensure that legacy of safety does not erode during this period of transition.”
According to a statement from Metra, the agency plans to welcome the additional federal involvement. “Safety is our number one priority at Metra, and while we believe we are operating as safely as possible, we appreciate the efforts of Sen. Durbin and the FRA to provide additional oversight.”
Gov. Pat Quinn has also called for increased state involvement at Metra and RTA. He said he plans to bring together a group of experts to work up changes that would be ready to present to lawmakers when they return to the Statehouse for the fall veto session in October. “I think we need to have a little bit more direct action on behalf of the public,” he said. “Right now, the role of our department [of transportation] and our state is basically to just hand the money over to RTA and Metra. I think we need far more oversight under law of these entities.”
The federal government will provide more oversight for Chicago’s commuter rail service as the number of board members dwindles.
The action from the Federal Railroad Administration is just another development in the ongoing fallout from allegations of political influence being asserted over hiring decisions and contract terms at the agency. Alex Clifford, the former chief executive officer of METRA, has said that lawmakers, including House Speaker Michael Madigan, tried to wield clout over the agency. His claims come as the Regional Transit Authority has launched an audit of Clifford’s severance settlement, which could leave him with more than $700,000. Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer is investigating Clifford’s allegations, and Madigan has said publicly that he did nothing wrong.
After the resignations of four Metra board members — including former chair Brad O’Halloran — the board lacks enough members to name a new chair. U.S. Sen. Richard Durbin wrote a letter asking Federal Railroad Administrator Joseph Szabo to intervene while Metra’s “current leadership issues are being resolved.” Durbin wrote in the letter sent to Szabo earlier this month: “I know the professional, non-political staff at Metra is dedicated to running this railroad in the safest way possible, however the lack of permanent leadership at the board and management levels creates a situation where accountability is hard to find and priorities like safety could become neglected.” In response, the Federal Railroad Administration will increase the number of train inspections and increase oversight of Metra’s testing and inspection program. The administration also plans to communicate directly with top Metra officials, reach out to labor leaders and attend meetings between labor and management. “Safety is our first priority,” Szabo said in a written statement. “Historically, Metra has had an exemplary safety record, in large measure due to the dedicated career personnel who oversee and perform the daily operations. Our goal is to ensure that legacy of safety does not erode during this period of transition.”
According to a statement from Metra, the agency plans to welcome the additional federal involvement. “Safety is our number one priority at Metra, and while we believe we are operating as safely as possible, we appreciate the efforts of Sen. Durbin and the FRA to provide additional oversight.”
Gov. Pat Quinn has also called for increased state involvement at Metra and RTA. He said he plans to bring together a group of experts to work up changes that would be ready to present to lawmakers when they return to the Statehouse for the fall veto session in October. “I think we need to have a little bit more direct action on behalf of the public,” he said. “Right now, the role of our department [of transportation] and our state is basically to just hand the money over to RTA and Metra. I think we need far more oversight under law of these entities.”
Monday, August 05, 2013
Quinn wants state to play a larger role in oversight of Metra and RTA
By Jamey Dunn
Gov. Pat Quinn said today that he wants to present lawmakers with a plan to address oversight at Metra and the Regional Transit Authority by the legislature's fall veto session, scheduled in October.
“I think it really needs fundamental overhaul,” Quinn told reporters in Chicago today. Four Metra board members have stepped down, including former board chair Brad O’Halloran, after allegations surfaced that lawmakers were pressuring board members about personnel and contract decisions. Former Metra CEO Max Clifford says that legislators, including House Speaker Michael Madigan, made suggestions to the board about hiring and employee compensation. Board members have also been called on to explain a severance package given to Clifford that could be worth more than $700,000. Clifford signed a confidentiality agreement as part of his severance settlement. The Regional Transit Authority, which oversees the Metra commuter rail service, is conducting an audit of the severance agreement.
Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer has launched an investigation. O’Halloran has denied any wrongdoing and said he stepped aside because media attention has made it impossible for him to continue in his leadership role. Madigan also said he did nothing wrong. “I have reviewed the facts surrounding the issue, and I am confident that my actions were not inappropriate or violative of any applicable law or ethical rule,” he wrote in a letter to Homer in July.
Quinn said today that he wants to bring together a group of transportation experts, whom he described as “not political,” to make reform suggestions for Metra and the RTA. The governor talked today about “restructuring” the two entities. “Clearly, the current system doesn’t work, and we need to find a system that does work.” He said he wants to have a proposal ready for lawmakers to consider by the time they are scheduled to return to the Statehouse on Oct. 22 for the veto session.
Quinn noted several times that he does not have the authority to appoint or dismiss Metra board members. The 11 board members are appointed by the county boards of counties that fall in the Metra service area. “I do not have the appointment power of Metra or RTA — there’s not one person I appointed at RTA or Metra — and I think that’s something that needs to be looked at very carefully.” Metra and RTA did not respond to requests for comment on the governor’s statements today.
Quinn said that because the state provides funds to both entities, he thinks it should have a role in oversight. “I think we need to have a little bit more direct action on behalf of the public,” he said. “Right now, the role of our department [of transportation] and our state is basically to just hand the money over to RTA and Metra. I think we need far more oversight under law of these entities.”
Gov. Pat Quinn said today that he wants to present lawmakers with a plan to address oversight at Metra and the Regional Transit Authority by the legislature's fall veto session, scheduled in October.
“I think it really needs fundamental overhaul,” Quinn told reporters in Chicago today. Four Metra board members have stepped down, including former board chair Brad O’Halloran, after allegations surfaced that lawmakers were pressuring board members about personnel and contract decisions. Former Metra CEO Max Clifford says that legislators, including House Speaker Michael Madigan, made suggestions to the board about hiring and employee compensation. Board members have also been called on to explain a severance package given to Clifford that could be worth more than $700,000. Clifford signed a confidentiality agreement as part of his severance settlement. The Regional Transit Authority, which oversees the Metra commuter rail service, is conducting an audit of the severance agreement.
Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer has launched an investigation. O’Halloran has denied any wrongdoing and said he stepped aside because media attention has made it impossible for him to continue in his leadership role. Madigan also said he did nothing wrong. “I have reviewed the facts surrounding the issue, and I am confident that my actions were not inappropriate or violative of any applicable law or ethical rule,” he wrote in a letter to Homer in July.
Quinn said today that he wants to bring together a group of transportation experts, whom he described as “not political,” to make reform suggestions for Metra and the RTA. The governor talked today about “restructuring” the two entities. “Clearly, the current system doesn’t work, and we need to find a system that does work.” He said he wants to have a proposal ready for lawmakers to consider by the time they are scheduled to return to the Statehouse on Oct. 22 for the veto session.
Quinn noted several times that he does not have the authority to appoint or dismiss Metra board members. The 11 board members are appointed by the county boards of counties that fall in the Metra service area. “I do not have the appointment power of Metra or RTA — there’s not one person I appointed at RTA or Metra — and I think that’s something that needs to be looked at very carefully.” Metra and RTA did not respond to requests for comment on the governor’s statements today.
Quinn said that because the state provides funds to both entities, he thinks it should have a role in oversight. “I think we need to have a little bit more direct action on behalf of the public,” he said. “Right now, the role of our department [of transportation] and our state is basically to just hand the money over to RTA and Metra. I think we need far more oversight under law of these entities.”
Friday, July 19, 2013
Madigan encourages investigation of ex-Metra chief's clout claims
By Jamey Dunn
In the wake of the legislature’s inspector general announcing an investigation into whether Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan tried to use his clout to influence Metra personnel decisions, Madigan has issued a letter denying any wrongdoing
Alex Clifford, the former chief executive officer of the Chicago suburban commuter rail service, claims that Madigan asked that a Metra employee be given a raise. Clifford said he was pressured by members of the Metra board to give Patrick Ward, a Madigan donor and then-Metra employee, a pay increase and to promote another employee. Ward now works in Gov. Pat Quinn's administration at a job for which Madigan recommended him. Clifford said at a hearing this week that he thinks Madigan’s actions were “a character flaw, both ethically and morally.” But since neither the raise nor the promotion were given, he does not think that “the law was broken.”
Madigan sent a letter today to Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer and members of the General Assembly’s Legislative Ethics Commission saying he encourages the investigation and that his office will cooperate. “I have reviewed the facts surrounding the issue, and I am confident that my actions were not inappropriate or violative of any applicable law or ethical rule,” Madigan wrote. Homer has said he plans to investigate Clifford's claims.
Clifford also says other lawmakers tried to influence Metra hiring practices and that the board mishandled contracts while he was on leave for treatment of thyroid cancer. RTA board members deny that they pressured Clifford, who left earlier this year with a more then $700,000 settlement that also came with a confidentiality agreement. They say Clifford only raised such concerns after it became clear that his contract with Metra would not be renewed. “I deny Mr. Clifford’s allegations, but out of an abundance of caution, immediately forwarded all of his claims to the inspector general,” Metra Board Chairman Brad O’Halloran said in a written statement. “I have never intervened with Metra’s staff regarding any jobs or contracts. The board attempted a fair and unbiased review process for Mr. Clifford that was upended by his threatened legal strategy, which resulted in the settlement.” The Regional Transportation Authority is auditing Clifford’s severance deal.
The Metra board is bringing in former Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Collins, who led the investigation against former Gov. George Ryan, to look into Clifford’s claims and make recommendations for tightening the agencies hiring and contract policies. Collins is scheduled to report his finding to the board at a public hearing in 90 days. “Patrick Collins has an unquestioned reputation for integrity, honesty and fighting corruption,” O’Halloran said. “I look forward to an unflinching report which makes recommendations that help the agency restore confidence with riders, taxpayers and the communities we serve.” UPDATE Monday July 22: Collins will not be heading the investigation because of a potential conflict of interest tied to his law firm Perkins Colie. “I am personally disappointed that Patrick Collins cannot undertake this endeavor,” O’Halloran said in a prepared statement. “I felt he would have done an excellent job. I remain committed to interviewing other lawyers with outstanding reputations and investigative skills, and to once again ask the board for its approval.”
Meanwhile some lawmakers are calling for the ousting of the entire Metra board. “I've seen enough. ... It's time to blow up the board at Metra,” Sen. Kirk Dillard told the Daily Herald last weekend. “It's not just hiring — it's on-time performance, mechanical breakdowns and a bad rollout of the fare increase.” Dillard, a Hinsdale Republican is also running for governor. Marengo Democratic Rep. Jack Franks called for the board members’ resignations after none of them showed up to testify before a legislative committee last week. “They have no business being in the public trust.
In the wake of the legislature’s inspector general announcing an investigation into whether Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan tried to use his clout to influence Metra personnel decisions, Madigan has issued a letter denying any wrongdoing
Alex Clifford, the former chief executive officer of the Chicago suburban commuter rail service, claims that Madigan asked that a Metra employee be given a raise. Clifford said he was pressured by members of the Metra board to give Patrick Ward, a Madigan donor and then-Metra employee, a pay increase and to promote another employee. Ward now works in Gov. Pat Quinn's administration at a job for which Madigan recommended him. Clifford said at a hearing this week that he thinks Madigan’s actions were “a character flaw, both ethically and morally.” But since neither the raise nor the promotion were given, he does not think that “the law was broken.”
Madigan sent a letter today to Legislative Inspector General Thomas Homer and members of the General Assembly’s Legislative Ethics Commission saying he encourages the investigation and that his office will cooperate. “I have reviewed the facts surrounding the issue, and I am confident that my actions were not inappropriate or violative of any applicable law or ethical rule,” Madigan wrote. Homer has said he plans to investigate Clifford's claims.
Clifford also says other lawmakers tried to influence Metra hiring practices and that the board mishandled contracts while he was on leave for treatment of thyroid cancer. RTA board members deny that they pressured Clifford, who left earlier this year with a more then $700,000 settlement that also came with a confidentiality agreement. They say Clifford only raised such concerns after it became clear that his contract with Metra would not be renewed. “I deny Mr. Clifford’s allegations, but out of an abundance of caution, immediately forwarded all of his claims to the inspector general,” Metra Board Chairman Brad O’Halloran said in a written statement. “I have never intervened with Metra’s staff regarding any jobs or contracts. The board attempted a fair and unbiased review process for Mr. Clifford that was upended by his threatened legal strategy, which resulted in the settlement.” The Regional Transportation Authority is auditing Clifford’s severance deal.
The Metra board is bringing in former Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Collins, who led the investigation against former Gov. George Ryan, to look into Clifford’s claims and make recommendations for tightening the agencies hiring and contract policies. Collins is scheduled to report his finding to the board at a public hearing in 90 days. “Patrick Collins has an unquestioned reputation for integrity, honesty and fighting corruption,” O’Halloran said. “I look forward to an unflinching report which makes recommendations that help the agency restore confidence with riders, taxpayers and the communities we serve.” UPDATE Monday July 22: Collins will not be heading the investigation because of a potential conflict of interest tied to his law firm Perkins Colie. “I am personally disappointed that Patrick Collins cannot undertake this endeavor,” O’Halloran said in a prepared statement. “I felt he would have done an excellent job. I remain committed to interviewing other lawyers with outstanding reputations and investigative skills, and to once again ask the board for its approval.”
Meanwhile some lawmakers are calling for the ousting of the entire Metra board. “I've seen enough. ... It's time to blow up the board at Metra,” Sen. Kirk Dillard told the Daily Herald last weekend. “It's not just hiring — it's on-time performance, mechanical breakdowns and a bad rollout of the fare increase.” Dillard, a Hinsdale Republican is also running for governor. Marengo Democratic Rep. Jack Franks called for the board members’ resignations after none of them showed up to testify before a legislative committee last week. “They have no business being in the public trust.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Final state budget bills sent to governor
By Meredith Colias and Jamey Dunn
The Illinois Senate today approved the last two budget bills that the House sent over. Republicans echoed the same compliant they have had about the other pieces of the budget for Fiscal Year 2014, which was crafted by Democrats from both chambers.
House Bill 214 is general services spending, the General Assembly’s budget and the constitutional officers' budgets. HB 215 is public safety and transportation spending, Illinois Department of Corrections budget, capital construction spending for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' budget. “It’s a responsible budget. We live within our means; we fund key programs; we’re paying down our bills,” said Park Ridge Democratic Sen. Dan Kotowski.
Sen. Chapin Rose, a Mahomet Republican, called the budget incomplete because it does not contain funds earmarked to pay back wages owed to state workers. “There’s a $140 million hole in this budget out of the gate,” he said.
“We’ll have to come back in the fall for a supplemental” spending bill to cover the back pay,” said Lake Barrington Republican Sen. Dan Duffy. “We should stay down here as long as we have to — all night and all summer if we have to — to come up with a balanced budget to pay down our bills.”
Meanwhile, Senate Bill 2555 and SB 2556, which contain the funding for K-12 and higher education, passed the House on the final day of the spring session and now go to the governor. K-12 education funding has been cut severely since 2009, and Homewood Democratic Rep. William Davis said that he was pleased that unexpected tax revenues allowed general state aid to be held flat for the next fiscal year because the state has an obligation to fund education. “We have to put our money where our mouths are,” said Davis, who chairs the House education budgeting committee.
Even though the K-12 education budget for Fiscal Year 2014 includes more than $6.6 billion in funding, school districts will still have to make due with an 89 percent proration for general state aid and a 64 percent proration for transportation. Funding for bilingual education and early childhood education will remain flat. Republicans criticized smaller parts of the more than $1.9 billion higher education budget, such as $600,000 for a Quad Cities manufacturing center at Western Illinois University. “If you are going to vote for this budget, I get it. But I am not going to support a budget that is a sham,” Macomb Republican Rep. Norine Hammond said.
The dismal state of funding for universities has forced many to delay maintenance, institute hiring freezes and look for other ways to supplement their budgets, including raising tuition. Rep. Chad Hays, a Republican from Catlin, said he is concerned that tuition increases are pricing Illinois schools out of range for average people. “Public education is getting elbowed off the table,” Hays said. “We are pricing the average family out of the higher education arena. The state can't be everything to everyone. We have to figure out where our priorities are.”
The Illinois Senate today approved the last two budget bills that the House sent over. Republicans echoed the same compliant they have had about the other pieces of the budget for Fiscal Year 2014, which was crafted by Democrats from both chambers.
House Bill 214 is general services spending, the General Assembly’s budget and the constitutional officers' budgets. HB 215 is public safety and transportation spending, Illinois Department of Corrections budget, capital construction spending for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1, and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources' budget. “It’s a responsible budget. We live within our means; we fund key programs; we’re paying down our bills,” said Park Ridge Democratic Sen. Dan Kotowski.
Sen. Chapin Rose, a Mahomet Republican, called the budget incomplete because it does not contain funds earmarked to pay back wages owed to state workers. “There’s a $140 million hole in this budget out of the gate,” he said.
“We’ll have to come back in the fall for a supplemental” spending bill to cover the back pay,” said Lake Barrington Republican Sen. Dan Duffy. “We should stay down here as long as we have to — all night and all summer if we have to — to come up with a balanced budget to pay down our bills.”
Meanwhile, Senate Bill 2555 and SB 2556, which contain the funding for K-12 and higher education, passed the House on the final day of the spring session and now go to the governor. K-12 education funding has been cut severely since 2009, and Homewood Democratic Rep. William Davis said that he was pleased that unexpected tax revenues allowed general state aid to be held flat for the next fiscal year because the state has an obligation to fund education. “We have to put our money where our mouths are,” said Davis, who chairs the House education budgeting committee.
Even though the K-12 education budget for Fiscal Year 2014 includes more than $6.6 billion in funding, school districts will still have to make due with an 89 percent proration for general state aid and a 64 percent proration for transportation. Funding for bilingual education and early childhood education will remain flat. Republicans criticized smaller parts of the more than $1.9 billion higher education budget, such as $600,000 for a Quad Cities manufacturing center at Western Illinois University. “If you are going to vote for this budget, I get it. But I am not going to support a budget that is a sham,” Macomb Republican Rep. Norine Hammond said.
The dismal state of funding for universities has forced many to delay maintenance, institute hiring freezes and look for other ways to supplement their budgets, including raising tuition. Rep. Chad Hays, a Republican from Catlin, said he is concerned that tuition increases are pricing Illinois schools out of range for average people. “Public education is getting elbowed off the table,” Hays said. “We are pricing the average family out of the higher education arena. The state can't be everything to everyone. We have to figure out where our priorities are.”
Thursday, May 30, 2013
What to watch for on the last day of session
By Meredith Colias and Jamey Dunn
The legislature heads toward its final day tomorrow with plenty of issues still to address.
Here some things to watch for …
Same-sex marriage
With a same-sex marriage vote possibly looming tomorrow, supporters at the Capitol urged lawmakers today to take up the issue before adjournment. Teresa Volpe, who came with her partner and young children, said it was “about the message that is being sent to our family.” Volpe said she wanted to show her children “they are not born into a society of inequality.”
The bill has been dormant in the House since February, when the Senate ushered it through the chamber on Valentine's Day. Since then, its sponsor, Chicago Democratic Rep. Greg Harris, has been secretive on its House prospects. Whether Harris has the votes to secure its passage is still unknown. Many undecided legislators are not publicly saying whether they will support the legislation, waiting until the final moment to reveal their intentions. Illinois barely passed civil unions in 2010, 61 to 52, and not all legislators who supported it then may necessarily support same-sex marriage now if the vote is called. President Barack Obama, a former Illinois state senator, waited until later in his presidency to publicly support same-sex marriage. During an appearance this week in Chicago, he urged the House to take up the legislation, Senate Bill 10.
Budget bills
The House still needs to vote on budgets for K-12 and higher education. Better-than-expected tax revenues are allowing the legislature to avoid cuts proposed in the governor’s March budget next year for general state aid, transportation, bilingual and early childhood education. The legislature’s higher education budget also avoids a 5 percent cut the governor called for, as well.
The K-12 funding is included in Senate Bill 2555. The higher education funding is included in Senate Bill 2556.
The Senate plans to take up two budget bills tomorrow as well:
Health insurance exchange
The bill authorizing the “Obamacare” online insurance marketplace exchange passed the Senate and awaits a vote in the House to confirm or reject changes the Senate made that need to be reconciled before the legislation can be sent to the governor. Individuals would be allowed to purchase health insurance plans if they do not receive health insurance through an employer. The exchange is scheduled to begin in 2014. The bill is House Bill 3227.
Speed limit increase
A bill increasing the highway speed limit to 70 mph in most of downstate Illinois has passed both chambers and now heads to the governor. Freshman Republican Sen. Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove sponsored the Senate version. Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will, Madison and St. Clair counties would be able to opt out of the increase. The bill is Senate Bill 2356.
Drones
A bill narrowly defining drone use by law enforcement passed the House, and now the Senate needs to take up changes the House made. The Senate version allowed law enforcement to use a drone quickly to prevent extensive damage to property. The House version rejects that. The bill is Senate Bill 1587.
Pension changes
The House and Senate appear to have reached an impasse on the issue, but anything can happen on the last day of session. Keep an eye out for an attempt at a last-minute compromise.
Gaming
Blue Island Democratic Rep. Robert Rita, the sponsor of SB 1739, said today that he hopes to have a final bill tomorrow. It wouldn’t be the end of session without a push for a gambling expansion.
Concealed carry of firearms
Players from both chambers are reportedly meeting on this issue. The two bills from each chamber are not that far apart, so a compromise bill is a possibility.
The legislature heads toward its final day tomorrow with plenty of issues still to address.
Here some things to watch for …
Same-sex marriage
With a same-sex marriage vote possibly looming tomorrow, supporters at the Capitol urged lawmakers today to take up the issue before adjournment. Teresa Volpe, who came with her partner and young children, said it was “about the message that is being sent to our family.” Volpe said she wanted to show her children “they are not born into a society of inequality.”
The bill has been dormant in the House since February, when the Senate ushered it through the chamber on Valentine's Day. Since then, its sponsor, Chicago Democratic Rep. Greg Harris, has been secretive on its House prospects. Whether Harris has the votes to secure its passage is still unknown. Many undecided legislators are not publicly saying whether they will support the legislation, waiting until the final moment to reveal their intentions. Illinois barely passed civil unions in 2010, 61 to 52, and not all legislators who supported it then may necessarily support same-sex marriage now if the vote is called. President Barack Obama, a former Illinois state senator, waited until later in his presidency to publicly support same-sex marriage. During an appearance this week in Chicago, he urged the House to take up the legislation, Senate Bill 10.
Budget bills
The House still needs to vote on budgets for K-12 and higher education. Better-than-expected tax revenues are allowing the legislature to avoid cuts proposed in the governor’s March budget next year for general state aid, transportation, bilingual and early childhood education. The legislature’s higher education budget also avoids a 5 percent cut the governor called for, as well.
The K-12 funding is included in Senate Bill 2555. The higher education funding is included in Senate Bill 2556.
The Senate plans to take up two budget bills tomorrow as well:
- House Bill 214 is general services spending, the General Assembly’s budget and the constitutional officers' budgets.
- HB 215 is public safety and transportation spending, Illinois Department of Corrections budget, capital construction spending for the next fiscal year and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources budget. Both have been approved by the House.
Health insurance exchange
The bill authorizing the “Obamacare” online insurance marketplace exchange passed the Senate and awaits a vote in the House to confirm or reject changes the Senate made that need to be reconciled before the legislation can be sent to the governor. Individuals would be allowed to purchase health insurance plans if they do not receive health insurance through an employer. The exchange is scheduled to begin in 2014. The bill is House Bill 3227.
Speed limit increase
A bill increasing the highway speed limit to 70 mph in most of downstate Illinois has passed both chambers and now heads to the governor. Freshman Republican Sen. Jim Oberweis of Sugar Grove sponsored the Senate version. Cook, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Will, Madison and St. Clair counties would be able to opt out of the increase. The bill is Senate Bill 2356.
Drones
A bill narrowly defining drone use by law enforcement passed the House, and now the Senate needs to take up changes the House made. The Senate version allowed law enforcement to use a drone quickly to prevent extensive damage to property. The House version rejects that. The bill is Senate Bill 1587.
Pension changes
The House and Senate appear to have reached an impasse on the issue, but anything can happen on the last day of session. Keep an eye out for an attempt at a last-minute compromise.
Gaming
Blue Island Democratic Rep. Robert Rita, the sponsor of SB 1739, said today that he hopes to have a final bill tomorrow. It wouldn’t be the end of session without a push for a gambling expansion.
Concealed carry of firearms
Players from both chambers are reportedly meeting on this issue. The two bills from each chamber are not that far apart, so a compromise bill is a possibility.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Ban on cell phones behind the wheel headed to Quinn
By Meredith Colias
Cellphone-loving drivers may soon need to dial down their usage while on the road. Hoping to keep more eyes on the road, the Illinois House is sending legislation to the governor restricting additional types of cellphone usage while driving.
House Bill 1247 would only allow drivers to dial a single button on their phones to call someone. They then would have to use the speaker or a Bluetooth device on a call while they are driving. The state already bans texting while driving.
The House adopted Senate changes giving drivers a break for the first time they are caught using their phone in a prohibited manner before it is added to their driving record and reported to their insurance company. For drivers unable to curb their handheld habits, the fines would gradually increase each time they are caught. The first offense is a $75 fine and it would increase up to $150 fee on the fourth offense.
Opponents have criticized the bill, saying it was an overreach that would go too far in legislating personal habits. They say the bill would be an ineffective way to curb distractions and too difficult to enforce on the road. Marengo Democratic Rep. Jack Franks said that driving with a Wendy’s Frosty is “more distracting than simply being on my cellphone.”
A spokesperson for Gov. Pat Quinn has said Quinn is reviewing the bill.
Cellphone-loving drivers may soon need to dial down their usage while on the road. Hoping to keep more eyes on the road, the Illinois House is sending legislation to the governor restricting additional types of cellphone usage while driving.
House Bill 1247 would only allow drivers to dial a single button on their phones to call someone. They then would have to use the speaker or a Bluetooth device on a call while they are driving. The state already bans texting while driving.
The House adopted Senate changes giving drivers a break for the first time they are caught using their phone in a prohibited manner before it is added to their driving record and reported to their insurance company. For drivers unable to curb their handheld habits, the fines would gradually increase each time they are caught. The first offense is a $75 fine and it would increase up to $150 fee on the fourth offense.
Opponents have criticized the bill, saying it was an overreach that would go too far in legislating personal habits. They say the bill would be an ineffective way to curb distractions and too difficult to enforce on the road. Marengo Democratic Rep. Jack Franks said that driving with a Wendy’s Frosty is “more distracting than simply being on my cellphone.”
A spokesperson for Gov. Pat Quinn has said Quinn is reviewing the bill.
Tuesday, April 09, 2013
Suburban administrators say transportation cuts hit classrooms
By Meredith Colias
Suburban administrators struggling to cover transportation costs say they cannot bear deeper cuts next year.
Angela Smith, an assistant superintendent in the Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202, told a House committee that reducing the money the state pays for regular school bus costs to her district will only force it to look for cuts in other parts of her budget, such as staffing and basic programs. She said cuts to the state transportation reimbursement should not give lawmakers a false sense that teachers and students would not be impacted. “It’s going to affect the classroom, there’s no way around it,” she said.
Gov. Pat Quinn proposed a cut to regular transportation funding that is almost as large as his proposed cut to General State Aid. Under his plan, aid would be cut by $150 million, while the money the state gives schools to transport kids would be reduced by about $145 million. Quinn’s cut would take transportation funding from $206 million in the current fiscal year to more than $60 million in Fiscal Year 2014. However, the House education budgeting committee has led the way on the state education budget in recent years, and its proposal could be different from what the governor has pitched. “There are going to be cuts. We are experiencing enormous challenges here,” said Rep. David McSweeney, a Barrington Hills Republican and a member of the committee.
At the same time the transportation budget is expected to decrease, more school districts statewide are struggling to cover costs. The state board of education is estimating two-thirds of school districts will run a deficit in the next fiscal year. Both Smith and Tom Leonard, superintendent of Barrington Community Unit School District 220, said they were concerned with safety issues and were straining to figure out how to transport students over larger areas in their districts as efficiently as possible. Districts are not able to charge parents to make up the difference for busing their children because it would also reduce their share of General State Aid. Districts have taken measures such as spreading bus stops out farther from each other in an attempt to streamline costs as much as possible. “We’re stretched that to the point where there’s not very much [more] that can be done,” Smith said.
“We are trying to be efficient. More cuts will lead to stranger things,” Leonard said. Smith said the “easy” and “hard” options have already been taken in many district’s budget. “All that’s left are the really hard things,” she said.
Rep. William Davis, who chairs the committee, said that he is sympathetic to the cuts. He said that he plans to advocate for new revenues as he has in past budget years. “We do understand what cuts do,” he said. Davis, a Homewood Democrat, suggested that administrators could lobby their own suburban representatives, most of whom are Republican.
Suburban administrators struggling to cover transportation costs say they cannot bear deeper cuts next year.
Angela Smith, an assistant superintendent in the Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202, told a House committee that reducing the money the state pays for regular school bus costs to her district will only force it to look for cuts in other parts of her budget, such as staffing and basic programs. She said cuts to the state transportation reimbursement should not give lawmakers a false sense that teachers and students would not be impacted. “It’s going to affect the classroom, there’s no way around it,” she said.
Gov. Pat Quinn proposed a cut to regular transportation funding that is almost as large as his proposed cut to General State Aid. Under his plan, aid would be cut by $150 million, while the money the state gives schools to transport kids would be reduced by about $145 million. Quinn’s cut would take transportation funding from $206 million in the current fiscal year to more than $60 million in Fiscal Year 2014. However, the House education budgeting committee has led the way on the state education budget in recent years, and its proposal could be different from what the governor has pitched. “There are going to be cuts. We are experiencing enormous challenges here,” said Rep. David McSweeney, a Barrington Hills Republican and a member of the committee.
At the same time the transportation budget is expected to decrease, more school districts statewide are struggling to cover costs. The state board of education is estimating two-thirds of school districts will run a deficit in the next fiscal year. Both Smith and Tom Leonard, superintendent of Barrington Community Unit School District 220, said they were concerned with safety issues and were straining to figure out how to transport students over larger areas in their districts as efficiently as possible. Districts are not able to charge parents to make up the difference for busing their children because it would also reduce their share of General State Aid. Districts have taken measures such as spreading bus stops out farther from each other in an attempt to streamline costs as much as possible. “We’re stretched that to the point where there’s not very much [more] that can be done,” Smith said.
“We are trying to be efficient. More cuts will lead to stranger things,” Leonard said. Smith said the “easy” and “hard” options have already been taken in many district’s budget. “All that’s left are the really hard things,” she said.
Rep. William Davis, who chairs the committee, said that he is sympathetic to the cuts. He said that he plans to advocate for new revenues as he has in past budget years. “We do understand what cuts do,” he said. Davis, a Homewood Democrat, suggested that administrators could lobby their own suburban representatives, most of whom are Republican.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Veto session roundup
By Jamey Dunn
While Illinois lawmakers pushed some issues to additional session days scheduled later this month, they did pass a few substantial pieces of legislation.
Regional superintendent pay
The wait for paychecks will end for regional superintendents after Gov. Pat Quinn signs Senate Bill 2147. Quinn vetoed the funds for the administrators’ salaries, and while many have remained on the job, they have not been paid since summer. The measure draws from local revenues to compensate superintendents for one year. The bill also calls for a task force to study a potential consolidation of some of the Regional Offices of Education, which are run by the superintendents. Lawmakers expressed frustration with Quinn for cutting the funding for the superintendents' pay without a plan for who would take over their legally required duties, including school inspection and teacher certification. “We should be ashamed of the position that the governor’s veto has put us in,” said Spring Valley Democratic Rep. Frank Mautino, a sponsor of SB2147.
Quinn has maintained that local governments should pay for their salaries. A spokesperson for Quinn said that he plans to sign the bill.
Speed cameras
The city of Chicago could install cameras to catch speeders around parks and schools if Quinn signs SB965. The cameras would take a picture of the license plates of speeders who then would be mailed a ticket. They would not be charged with a moving violation. The offense would be on par with a parking ticket. And, like a parking ticket, the owner of the car, who may or may not have been driving at the time of the violation, would be responsible for the ticket.
Unemployment insurance
Legislators also approved a plan to address the state’s growing obligation to the federal government for unemployment benefits. The state has been borrowing money for the feds to keep pace with unemployment benefits paid out during the recession. The interest bill would have reached an estimated $240 million, which would have come out of general revenue funds. Under SB72, business will have to pay up to make the trust fund that pays benefits solvent. However, the interest payment and even larger penalties for businesses that would have happened if no action were taken, would be avoided. Companies that have not had any layoffs, nearly half of businesses in Illinois, would pay less. The plan passed with bipartisan support and the backing of the business and labor communities. “Many of us have campaigned that we want to help business out. … Well, here is your bill,” said Sen. Kyle McCarter during floor debate. Quinn also supports the measure. "We are in difficult economic times, and we need to bolster our unemployment insurance program to protect both workers and businesses," Quinn said in a prepared statement. “As we did with our workers’ compensation overhaul this spring, we brought everyone to the table to find a solution.”
For a comprehensive look at the unemployment insurance trust fund, see Illinois Issues November 2010.
House Speaker Michael Madigan said the House plans to return for session on November 29. Senate President Cullerton said his chamber would return before the end of the year to take up issues that were not resolved during the veto session.
While Illinois lawmakers pushed some issues to additional session days scheduled later this month, they did pass a few substantial pieces of legislation.
Regional superintendent pay
The wait for paychecks will end for regional superintendents after Gov. Pat Quinn signs Senate Bill 2147. Quinn vetoed the funds for the administrators’ salaries, and while many have remained on the job, they have not been paid since summer. The measure draws from local revenues to compensate superintendents for one year. The bill also calls for a task force to study a potential consolidation of some of the Regional Offices of Education, which are run by the superintendents. Lawmakers expressed frustration with Quinn for cutting the funding for the superintendents' pay without a plan for who would take over their legally required duties, including school inspection and teacher certification. “We should be ashamed of the position that the governor’s veto has put us in,” said Spring Valley Democratic Rep. Frank Mautino, a sponsor of SB2147.
Quinn has maintained that local governments should pay for their salaries. A spokesperson for Quinn said that he plans to sign the bill.
Speed cameras
The city of Chicago could install cameras to catch speeders around parks and schools if Quinn signs SB965. The cameras would take a picture of the license plates of speeders who then would be mailed a ticket. They would not be charged with a moving violation. The offense would be on par with a parking ticket. And, like a parking ticket, the owner of the car, who may or may not have been driving at the time of the violation, would be responsible for the ticket.
Unemployment insurance
Legislators also approved a plan to address the state’s growing obligation to the federal government for unemployment benefits. The state has been borrowing money for the feds to keep pace with unemployment benefits paid out during the recession. The interest bill would have reached an estimated $240 million, which would have come out of general revenue funds. Under SB72, business will have to pay up to make the trust fund that pays benefits solvent. However, the interest payment and even larger penalties for businesses that would have happened if no action were taken, would be avoided. Companies that have not had any layoffs, nearly half of businesses in Illinois, would pay less. The plan passed with bipartisan support and the backing of the business and labor communities. “Many of us have campaigned that we want to help business out. … Well, here is your bill,” said Sen. Kyle McCarter during floor debate. Quinn also supports the measure. "We are in difficult economic times, and we need to bolster our unemployment insurance program to protect both workers and businesses," Quinn said in a prepared statement. “As we did with our workers’ compensation overhaul this spring, we brought everyone to the table to find a solution.”
For a comprehensive look at the unemployment insurance trust fund, see Illinois Issues November 2010.
House Speaker Michael Madigan said the House plans to return for session on November 29. Senate President Cullerton said his chamber would return before the end of the year to take up issues that were not resolved during the veto session.
Thursday, August 04, 2011
FAA deal would put some back to work in Illinois
By Jamey Dunn
An agreement on funding for the Federal Aviation Administration would bring some Illinoisans back to work, but if the U.S. Senate cannot reach a deal, continued deadlock could delay construction projects throughout the state.
Congress left for its summer break without approving an extension of funding for the FAA, resulting in the furlough of 4,000 employees and the shutdown of about 200 construction projects across the country. The U.S. House passed a bill containing the money, but the Senate did not vote on it. Senate Democrats took issue with a provision in the House bill that would cut subsidies for rural airports. Democrats also oppose Republican demands that union rights rollbacks be tied to any future long-term funding for the FAA. The last long-term funding for the administration expired in 2007, and Congress has been passing short-term extensions while it tries to work out a new plan.
In Illinois, 145 employees are off the job without pay until the money is approved. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, most of them are engineering and technical support staff. “The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is disappointed Congress has not passed a new FAA authorization or an extension, which is costing the federal government $30 million a day while directly impacting airport projects that are critical to our nation’s aviation system,” Rosemarie Andolino, Chicago Department of Aviation commissioner, said in a prepared statement. “Here in Chicago, the FAA has stated that 145 FAA employees have been furloughed, directly impacting their livelihoods and that of their families.”
No capital projects have been halted in the state, but there is concern that if the Senate does not pass the funding, future projects could be held up. Without congressional approval, the FAA is unable to administer $2.5 billion in funds for construction projects nationwide.
“It is possible … that airport projects scheduled to start this year will be delayed, along with the ongoing review of projects for 2012 and beyond if FAA funding is not approved,” Guy Tridgell, a spokesperson for IDOT, said in a prepared statement. IDOT provided a list of projects scheduled to begin this year:
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid announced this afternoon that a deal has been reached and the House bill could be approved as early as tomorrow. Senators who have already left Washington, D.C., may not have to return. The Senate has not yet adjourned. If Democrats and Republicans can agree, a bill can be passed by unanimous consent, and only one senator would have to be on the floor.
An agreement on funding for the Federal Aviation Administration would bring some Illinoisans back to work, but if the U.S. Senate cannot reach a deal, continued deadlock could delay construction projects throughout the state.
Congress left for its summer break without approving an extension of funding for the FAA, resulting in the furlough of 4,000 employees and the shutdown of about 200 construction projects across the country. The U.S. House passed a bill containing the money, but the Senate did not vote on it. Senate Democrats took issue with a provision in the House bill that would cut subsidies for rural airports. Democrats also oppose Republican demands that union rights rollbacks be tied to any future long-term funding for the FAA. The last long-term funding for the administration expired in 2007, and Congress has been passing short-term extensions while it tries to work out a new plan.
In Illinois, 145 employees are off the job without pay until the money is approved. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, most of them are engineering and technical support staff. “The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is disappointed Congress has not passed a new FAA authorization or an extension, which is costing the federal government $30 million a day while directly impacting airport projects that are critical to our nation’s aviation system,” Rosemarie Andolino, Chicago Department of Aviation commissioner, said in a prepared statement. “Here in Chicago, the FAA has stated that 145 FAA employees have been furloughed, directly impacting their livelihoods and that of their families.”
No capital projects have been halted in the state, but there is concern that if the Senate does not pass the funding, future projects could be held up. Without congressional approval, the FAA is unable to administer $2.5 billion in funds for construction projects nationwide.
“It is possible … that airport projects scheduled to start this year will be delayed, along with the ongoing review of projects for 2012 and beyond if FAA funding is not approved,” Guy Tridgell, a spokesperson for IDOT, said in a prepared statement. IDOT provided a list of projects scheduled to begin this year:
- Chicago Executive in Wheeling - partial taxiway construction.
- St. Louis Downtown in Cahokia - runway rehabilitation.
- Lake in the Hills - ramp construction, grading and drainage.
- MidAmerica in Belleville - cargo ramp expansion.
- Peoria International - rehabilitate pavements.
- Quad City International - convert runway to taxiway.
- Chicago Rockford International - rehabilitate runways 1-19 (phase 1).
- Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport Springfield - “Gulf” aircraft ramp construction (phase 1).
- Central Illinois Regional in Bloomington - perimeter fence construction.
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid announced this afternoon that a deal has been reached and the House bill could be approved as early as tomorrow. Senators who have already left Washington, D.C., may not have to return. The Senate has not yet adjourned. If Democrats and Republicans can agree, a bill can be passed by unanimous consent, and only one senator would have to be on the floor.
Wednesday, June 01, 2011
Legislative roundup
By Lauren N. Johnson
While workers’ compensation reform, “smart grid” legislation and the state budget made headlines, lawmakers took end-of-session action on several other measures that would impact drivers, immigrants and the health and well being of residents, including student athletes
Executive appointments
House Bill 2972, which passed in both legislative chambers, would automatically put appointees out of a job once they serve 60 days beyond their expired terms
The bill is a compromised version of Senate Bill 1, sponsored by all four legislative caucus leaders: Senate President John Cullerton, a Chicago Democrat; Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno, of Lamont; House Speaker Michael Madigan, a Chicago Democrat; and House Minority Leader Tom Cross of Oswego. Quinn took his veto pen to SB 1 to move back the effective date, so he would have more time to make decisions on holdover employees. HB 2972 gives the governor more time by allowing holdovers to stay in their jobs for 60 days. Under SB 1, paid holdovers would have been out of a job immediately, while unpaid appointees could serve up to 30 days past their terms.
Sex education
Local school districts choosing to offer sex education would be required to teach a "medically accurate and developmentally appropriate" curriculum, under House Bill 3027, which would allow educators to choose from a range of “age appropriate” materials offered by the Illinois State Board of Education.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Karen Yarbrough, a Maywood Democrat, and Sen. Heather Steans, a Chicago Democrat, would mandate that materials be handed out to teach students how to protect themselves and their partners during sex. Under the bill, which passed in both chambers, parents could review the materials and decide whether their children should participate.
Illinois DREAM Act
Undocumented students who were brought to the country by immigrant parents as children would be able to invest in prepaid tuition and college savings programs under the so-called Illinois DREAM Act, which lawmakers sent to the governor
Senate Bill 2185, would set up a commission to oversee a scholarship fund dedicated solely for undocumented youth – who must have attended high school – seeking access to an affordable higher education.
“Today’s bipartisan vote in the Illinois House is truly historic,” Lawrence Benito, deputy director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, said in a prepared statement after the bill’s passage. “This vote is a victory for our state and an important step forward in recognizing the contributions of immigrants.”
The proposal, sponsored by Senate President John Cullerton and Rep. Edward Acevedo, both Chicago Democrats, would allow private funds to be administered by a nine-member commission of volunteer state workers and students. The program would not cost Illinois taxpayers.
The bill would not grant citizenship to undocumented residents in the state, although supporters say it was modeled after the federal DREAM Act.
Athletic concussions
House Bill 200 would require the Illinois High School Association to distribute information about concussions produced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help educate coaches, student athletes, and parents on the risks of sports-related head injuries.
Park districts in the state are also encouraged to provide information on the dangers of head injuries to residents and users of park district facilities, including young athletes, under a measure sponsored by House Minority Leader Tom Cross of Oswego and Sen. Kwame Raoul, a Chicago Democrat, that passed the House this week.
“We have seen too many disturbing stories about the long-term negative impact that a concussion can have,” said Raoul, who worked with Chicago Bears' 1985 Super Bowl champions Richard Dent, Kurt Becker and Otis Wilson, along with Illinois school and park districts. “From little league football to the NFL, and all levels and types of sports, this legislation will help make sure that girls and boys, men and women better protect themselves from potentially life-altering head injuries,” he said.
Safety belts
All passengers in the back seat would be required to wear a “properly adjusted” seat belt, under House Bill 219, sponsored by Rep. Mark Beaubian, a Barrington Hills Republican, and Senate President John Cullerton, that passed the Senate, 30-23.
Cullerton, who championed the bill, told reporters it would save lives. In Illinois, 264 people died in motor vehicle accidents while not wearing seat belts in 2009. Nationally, 1,095 back-seat passengers died as result of not wearing seat belts in that same year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The bill would be an add on to the seat belt law that took effect in July 2003, which required only the driver, front seat passengers and passengers under the age of 18 in the back seat to wear seat belts.
If Quinn signs the legislation, Illinois will become the 26th state to require all occupants to buckle up in the front and back of a car. Back-seat passengers of taxicabs and those who ride in emergency ambulance vehicles would be exempt. Passengers who failed to wear seat belts could be fined up to $60, according to the Illinois State Police, not including potential costs for court fees.
Trans fat ban
What has become an annual push to ban trans fats failed again this year. Lawmakers have typically target schools for the ban, but this time, restaurants and other foods facilities would have had to stop serving food with trans fat. Under House Bill 1600, sponsored by Democratic Rep. LaShawn Ford and Sen. Donne Trotter, both of Chicago, the ban would have taken effect in January 2013.
The bill, which passed the House in April but failed in the Senate with only 13 “yes” votes, excluded from the ban small businesses that earn less than $4 million in profits annually, schools and government institutions. It would, however, have barred public and private schools from selling foods containing trans fat in vending machines.
Opponents of the bill questioned whether the state would be taking on a “nanny” role by passing such legislation. Sen. Mike Jacobs said: “I love Oreo cookies, and I love the trans fat in the old Oreo cookies. Now, I’ll still eat the Oreo cookies, but I liked them better when they had the trans fat. Frankly, I think I ought to make that decision, rather than my colleague.”
While workers’ compensation reform, “smart grid” legislation and the state budget made headlines, lawmakers took end-of-session action on several other measures that would impact drivers, immigrants and the health and well being of residents, including student athletes
Executive appointments
House Bill 2972, which passed in both legislative chambers, would automatically put appointees out of a job once they serve 60 days beyond their expired terms
The bill is a compromised version of Senate Bill 1, sponsored by all four legislative caucus leaders: Senate President John Cullerton, a Chicago Democrat; Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno, of Lamont; House Speaker Michael Madigan, a Chicago Democrat; and House Minority Leader Tom Cross of Oswego. Quinn took his veto pen to SB 1 to move back the effective date, so he would have more time to make decisions on holdover employees. HB 2972 gives the governor more time by allowing holdovers to stay in their jobs for 60 days. Under SB 1, paid holdovers would have been out of a job immediately, while unpaid appointees could serve up to 30 days past their terms.
Sex education
Local school districts choosing to offer sex education would be required to teach a "medically accurate and developmentally appropriate" curriculum, under House Bill 3027, which would allow educators to choose from a range of “age appropriate” materials offered by the Illinois State Board of Education.
The bill, sponsored by Rep. Karen Yarbrough, a Maywood Democrat, and Sen. Heather Steans, a Chicago Democrat, would mandate that materials be handed out to teach students how to protect themselves and their partners during sex. Under the bill, which passed in both chambers, parents could review the materials and decide whether their children should participate.
Illinois DREAM Act
Undocumented students who were brought to the country by immigrant parents as children would be able to invest in prepaid tuition and college savings programs under the so-called Illinois DREAM Act, which lawmakers sent to the governor
Senate Bill 2185, would set up a commission to oversee a scholarship fund dedicated solely for undocumented youth – who must have attended high school – seeking access to an affordable higher education.
“Today’s bipartisan vote in the Illinois House is truly historic,” Lawrence Benito, deputy director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, said in a prepared statement after the bill’s passage. “This vote is a victory for our state and an important step forward in recognizing the contributions of immigrants.”
The proposal, sponsored by Senate President John Cullerton and Rep. Edward Acevedo, both Chicago Democrats, would allow private funds to be administered by a nine-member commission of volunteer state workers and students. The program would not cost Illinois taxpayers.
The bill would not grant citizenship to undocumented residents in the state, although supporters say it was modeled after the federal DREAM Act.
Athletic concussions
House Bill 200 would require the Illinois High School Association to distribute information about concussions produced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help educate coaches, student athletes, and parents on the risks of sports-related head injuries.
Park districts in the state are also encouraged to provide information on the dangers of head injuries to residents and users of park district facilities, including young athletes, under a measure sponsored by House Minority Leader Tom Cross of Oswego and Sen. Kwame Raoul, a Chicago Democrat, that passed the House this week.
“We have seen too many disturbing stories about the long-term negative impact that a concussion can have,” said Raoul, who worked with Chicago Bears' 1985 Super Bowl champions Richard Dent, Kurt Becker and Otis Wilson, along with Illinois school and park districts. “From little league football to the NFL, and all levels and types of sports, this legislation will help make sure that girls and boys, men and women better protect themselves from potentially life-altering head injuries,” he said.
Safety belts
All passengers in the back seat would be required to wear a “properly adjusted” seat belt, under House Bill 219, sponsored by Rep. Mark Beaubian, a Barrington Hills Republican, and Senate President John Cullerton, that passed the Senate, 30-23.
Cullerton, who championed the bill, told reporters it would save lives. In Illinois, 264 people died in motor vehicle accidents while not wearing seat belts in 2009. Nationally, 1,095 back-seat passengers died as result of not wearing seat belts in that same year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The bill would be an add on to the seat belt law that took effect in July 2003, which required only the driver, front seat passengers and passengers under the age of 18 in the back seat to wear seat belts.
If Quinn signs the legislation, Illinois will become the 26th state to require all occupants to buckle up in the front and back of a car. Back-seat passengers of taxicabs and those who ride in emergency ambulance vehicles would be exempt. Passengers who failed to wear seat belts could be fined up to $60, according to the Illinois State Police, not including potential costs for court fees.
Trans fat ban
What has become an annual push to ban trans fats failed again this year. Lawmakers have typically target schools for the ban, but this time, restaurants and other foods facilities would have had to stop serving food with trans fat. Under House Bill 1600, sponsored by Democratic Rep. LaShawn Ford and Sen. Donne Trotter, both of Chicago, the ban would have taken effect in January 2013.
The bill, which passed the House in April but failed in the Senate with only 13 “yes” votes, excluded from the ban small businesses that earn less than $4 million in profits annually, schools and government institutions. It would, however, have barred public and private schools from selling foods containing trans fat in vending machines.
Opponents of the bill questioned whether the state would be taking on a “nanny” role by passing such legislation. Sen. Mike Jacobs said: “I love Oreo cookies, and I love the trans fat in the old Oreo cookies. Now, I’ll still eat the Oreo cookies, but I liked them better when they had the trans fat. Frankly, I think I ought to make that decision, rather than my colleague.”
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Agency unveils plan to see Chicago through the next 30 years
By Jamey Dunn
A plan that is intended to guide the growth and development of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs through 2040 was launched today.
The GOTO 2040 plan has been compared to the well-known, so-called Burnham Plan — the 1909 Plan of Chicago created by Daniel Burnham and Edward Bennett.
Tom Garritano, a spokesman for the Chicago Metropolitan Association for Planning (CMAP), said the comparison helped to grow interest an participation for the planning stage of GOTO 2040. “One of the great things of the timing of the 2040 plans was that it was in the last year of development during the Burnham centennial.”
He added the two plans address very different issues and challenges. “There’s 100 years in between. It is a very different region. The world is a very different place.”
GOTO 2040 cites an estimated population growth in the region of 25 percent, from 8,600,000 today to 11,000,000 residents in 2040.
The plan applies to Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties. It focuses on communities collaborating to make development decisions that work together, instead of building in a disconnected and haphazard way to meet immediate needs. “Most of our region's near-term challenges are the direct result of choices made — or too often deferred — in the past. Urgent challenges have often been an excuse to avoid planning, but they actually reinforce the need to plan more effectively. We need to act now, before today's opportunities become tomorrow's crises.”
GOTO 2040 emphasizes sustainability, maintaining public transit and infrastructure, and cutting down on suburban sprawl.
Garritano acknowledged that one of the most important aspects of implementation will be participation from all the communities GOTO 2040 involves. However, he said the involvement of many stakeholders in the three-year development of the plan is an encouraging indicator of their willingness to participate. “They’ve helped write their marching orders,” he said. “I wouldn’t take [their participation] for granted, but it’s a good sign.”
The authors of GOTO 2040 emphasized the need for responsibility and communication across Chicago-area communities. “The cumulative choices of 284 municipalities and seven counties determine quality of life and economic prosperity across our region. With local autonomy over land use comes the responsibility to consider how those decisions shape a community’s livability, including how they affect neighboring communities and the region as a whole. “
From more on GOTO 2040 see the current (October) Illinois Issues, page 31.
A plan that is intended to guide the growth and development of Chicago and its surrounding suburbs through 2040 was launched today.
The GOTO 2040 plan has been compared to the well-known, so-called Burnham Plan — the 1909 Plan of Chicago created by Daniel Burnham and Edward Bennett.
Tom Garritano, a spokesman for the Chicago Metropolitan Association for Planning (CMAP), said the comparison helped to grow interest an participation for the planning stage of GOTO 2040. “One of the great things of the timing of the 2040 plans was that it was in the last year of development during the Burnham centennial.”
He added the two plans address very different issues and challenges. “There’s 100 years in between. It is a very different region. The world is a very different place.”
GOTO 2040 cites an estimated population growth in the region of 25 percent, from 8,600,000 today to 11,000,000 residents in 2040.
The plan applies to Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry and Will counties. It focuses on communities collaborating to make development decisions that work together, instead of building in a disconnected and haphazard way to meet immediate needs. “Most of our region's near-term challenges are the direct result of choices made — or too often deferred — in the past. Urgent challenges have often been an excuse to avoid planning, but they actually reinforce the need to plan more effectively. We need to act now, before today's opportunities become tomorrow's crises.”
GOTO 2040 emphasizes sustainability, maintaining public transit and infrastructure, and cutting down on suburban sprawl.
Garritano acknowledged that one of the most important aspects of implementation will be participation from all the communities GOTO 2040 involves. However, he said the involvement of many stakeholders in the three-year development of the plan is an encouraging indicator of their willingness to participate. “They’ve helped write their marching orders,” he said. “I wouldn’t take [their participation] for granted, but it’s a good sign.”
The authors of GOTO 2040 emphasized the need for responsibility and communication across Chicago-area communities. “The cumulative choices of 284 municipalities and seven counties determine quality of life and economic prosperity across our region. With local autonomy over land use comes the responsibility to consider how those decisions shape a community’s livability, including how they affect neighboring communities and the region as a whole. “
From more on GOTO 2040 see the current (October) Illinois Issues, page 31.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Seniors might keep free rides
By Rachel Wells
Regardless of financial need, all seniors are likely to continue getting free mass transit rides.
A Senate committee on Wednesday voted against HB 4654, which would have repealed a program instituted by then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich that allowed higher income seniors to ride buses and trains for free. Previously, higher income seniors paid half-fare, and only low-income seniors were allowed to ride free of charge.
Chicago Democratic Sen. Rickey Hendon took credit for blocking the measure. “Seniors are facing rising property taxes and have less disposable income, but they still need to get to work, see their doctors and run daily errands,” he said in a news release. “The senior free ride program helps them do that.”
Lemont Republican Sen. Christine Radogno sponsored the measure and said that limiting free rides to just low-income seniors should be an easy decision for lawmakers during a budget crisis.
The House earlier this spring approved the measure, which now remains in the Senate executive committee.
Regardless of financial need, all seniors are likely to continue getting free mass transit rides.
A Senate committee on Wednesday voted against HB 4654, which would have repealed a program instituted by then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich that allowed higher income seniors to ride buses and trains for free. Previously, higher income seniors paid half-fare, and only low-income seniors were allowed to ride free of charge.
Chicago Democratic Sen. Rickey Hendon took credit for blocking the measure. “Seniors are facing rising property taxes and have less disposable income, but they still need to get to work, see their doctors and run daily errands,” he said in a news release. “The senior free ride program helps them do that.”
Lemont Republican Sen. Christine Radogno sponsored the measure and said that limiting free rides to just low-income seniors should be an easy decision for lawmakers during a budget crisis.
The House earlier this spring approved the measure, which now remains in the Senate executive committee.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
September issue: Out with the Old — NCLB
Check out the September edition of Illinois Issues magazine.
Find a profile of Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno, who has taken her party away from the legacy of James 'Pate' Philip, according to writer Kevin McDermott, in "Her own style."
In our cover story, educators and policy groups weigh in as Congress prepares to reauthorize the 2001 No Child Left Behind law. See "Out with the old."
And get a preview of an Illinois Supreme Court case that has potential to clarify what nonprofit hospitals need to do to qualify for property tax exemptions. Read "Charity care" before the case's oral arguments, scheduled for September 23.
In the print edition, only, University of Illinois at Springfield professor Christopher Mooney analyzes Gov. Pat Quinn's "populist" style as he calls attention to direct democracy concepts of recall and citizen initiative in "Let the people speak."
Also in print-only, MarySue Barrett, president of the Metropolitan Planning Council, pens a guest essay about "Wise spending," or a method she says would get infrastructure investment right.
As always, the print edition also includes, among other monthly features, the award-winning column by Charlie Wheeler, director of the Public Affairs Reporting program at UIS. This month, he says, "Illinois' budget is the most out-of-whack in recent history."
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Capital plan passes both chambers
By Jamey Dunn and Hilary RussellPhotograph by Hilary Russell
Right: The Illinois House approved a revenue package by a vote of 86-30-1, with opposition mostly objecting to new gaming sources.
The House tonight approved a major capital construction program, wrapping up one of the three major issues that lawmakers seek to tackle before session adjourns at the end of the month. The next step for the bill is approval from Gov. Pat Quinn, but whether that will happen quickly and when projects would begin is still up in the air.
The $26 billion plan will be funded by tax, fee and fine increases. The state will contribute about $11.5 billion, which will leverage federal and local funds. An expansion of lottery ticket sales and legalizing video gaming in bars, restaurants and truck stops will generate revenue for the state’s contribution.
However, House Minority Leader Tom Cross said he does not know exactly when construction would start. “Maybe summer, early fall. But I think even if you don’t have specific shovels in the ground, you’ve got engineers and architects putting plans together,” he said after the program won House approval. “We’ve got some good movement in that mini-capital plan, so there’s some activity out there. Would we all love to see it all tomorrow? Yeah, but it’s not going to happen.”
Some of the proposed revenue sources would not immediately bring in money. Video gaming would require implementing a complicated oversight process. Many establishments already have video poker machines, and some illegally pay out to winners. If the legislation becomes law, the payouts would have to be documented and regulated. Existing machines would have to be replaced or retrofitted to meet monitoring standards spelled out in the legislation. Proponents claim that the new regulation could weed out organized crime that has been perceived to be associated with illegal video poker.
Leasing the Illinois Lottery to a private entity is contingent on approval from the U.S. Department of Justice, and the state has no control over how soon, if ever, that will come. Selling lottery tickets online is an unprecedented move. If approved, getting the operation up and running could take awhile.
Legalizing video gaming and the proposed changes to the lottery kept the plan from getting unanimous support. Cross said it was a difficult vote for some members of the GOP caucus. “It’s going to be difficult, and it’s going to have a little pain in it. And, there are people that didn’t like it,” he said.
Some Democrats didn’t like it, either. The majority of “no” votes among Democrats came from suburban Chicago lawmakers. Many echoed Quinn’s statement yesterday that the state’s operating budget, which funds government operations, health care, education and social services, should have taken priority over a construction plan.
Rep. John Fritchey, a Chicago Democrat and the only lawmaker to vote “present” on the revenue sources, said he was hesitant to approve what he considered a gaming expansion and the privatization of the lottery. He added that while the legislature found money to build new schools, lawmakers haven’t yet figured out how to pay for the teachers who would work in those schools.
Legislators also expressed concern that Quinn might not sign the capital plan into law until the General Assembly sends an operating budget to his desk. He has 60 days to act before the capital program automatically becomes law. Cross said that Quinn had told him he would sign the bill, but he worries that Quinn could delay the signing.
Regardless, lawmakers expressed relief that both chambers finally approved a long-awaited infrastructure program after consecutive years of false starts.
Rep. Lou Lang, a Skokie Democrat, said: “The state of Illinois has needed an infrastructure bill for a very long time. We need to put people to work, we need to fix roads, bridges and schools and water mains, and I believe this is an economic stimulus package done by the state of Illinois. And it was critical that it passed.”
Now the legislature can turn its focus to the operating budget and government reforms. While some procurement and employee ethics reforms advanced to the Senate today, the Senate also could begin debate about the governor’s Illinois Reform Commission’s proposals tomorrow.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Semitrailer speed limit could increase
by Jamey Dunn
Semitrailers may soon be able to travel as fast as passenger vehicles on certain stretches of interstate in Illinois.
A bill that would increase the speed limit for tractor-trailers on rural interstates to 65 miles per hour advanced through the Senate this morning. The measure already passed through the House, and now it goes to Gov. Pat Quinn’s desk.
Similar bills have passed three times in previous sessions, only to be vetoed by former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Libby White, a spokesperson for Quinn, said that he is reviewing the bill. Rushville Democrat Sen. John Sullivan, the bill’s sponsor, said that he has not talked to Quinn, but he has been communicating with Quinn’s staff. He said he has the impression that Quinn “doesn’t have as much objections to it as the previous governor.”
Sullivan said that this bill is a little different than previous versions because it names the counties that would be exempt from the increase. He said he thinks that this provision could help remove some opposition and that he is optimistic the proposal will become law this time around. “I feel better about it,” he said.
Semitrailers may soon be able to travel as fast as passenger vehicles on certain stretches of interstate in Illinois.
A bill that would increase the speed limit for tractor-trailers on rural interstates to 65 miles per hour advanced through the Senate this morning. The measure already passed through the House, and now it goes to Gov. Pat Quinn’s desk.
Similar bills have passed three times in previous sessions, only to be vetoed by former Gov. Rod Blagojevich. Libby White, a spokesperson for Quinn, said that he is reviewing the bill. Rushville Democrat Sen. John Sullivan, the bill’s sponsor, said that he has not talked to Quinn, but he has been communicating with Quinn’s staff. He said he has the impression that Quinn “doesn’t have as much objections to it as the previous governor.”
Sullivan said that this bill is a little different than previous versions because it names the counties that would be exempt from the increase. He said he thinks that this provision could help remove some opposition and that he is optimistic the proposal will become law this time around. “I feel better about it,” he said.
Friday, May 01, 2009
May issue: A break from the past
Read the latest Illinois Issues magazine to see how Senate President John Cullerton is "reigning in the Senate." The Democratic leader has revived a bipartisan spirit, but how long that lasts depends on upcoming polarizing votes.
Also read what's at stake when the federal government takes its census of Americans.
And learn how Illinois is waiting for the federal government's signal about whether "clean coal" technology is worth the risk.
Available in the print edition only are stories about Illinois' infrastructure needs and costs, as well as the push for legalization of medical marijuana.
Also read what's at stake when the federal government takes its census of Americans.
And learn how Illinois is waiting for the federal government's signal about whether "clean coal" technology is worth the risk.
Available in the print edition only are stories about Illinois' infrastructure needs and costs, as well as the push for legalization of medical marijuana.
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