John Cullerton

Pension Plans Advance in Illinois Legislature

Brian Mackey — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 16:03:21 +0000

The Illinois Senate has moved forward with a pair of measures (SB 1 and SB 35) that would strip government workers of some of their pension benefits. The changes would impact state and university employees, as well as downstate and suburban public school teachers.

Illinois Lawmakers to Tackle Pension Reform (Again)

Rich Egger — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:09:00 +0000

Governor Pat Quinn has called lawmakers back to Springfield for a one-day special session to reform the state's pension systems.

But so far he doesn't have a plan beyond that.

"We've had proposals this year, we've had a working group this year, we've had discussions and negotiations this year," Quinn said.

"It's time to vote. It's time to show the people where the legislators stand on the foremost fiscal challenge that faces Illinois today, tomorrow or forever."

Lawmakers Close to Ending Legislative Scholarships

Rich Egger — Wed, 02 May 2012 20:36:50 +0000

An Illinois Senate panel is supporting legislation (HB 3810) that would end a perk that lets legislators hand out free tuition at state universities.

The House has voted to get rid of the scandal-plagued program three years running. But previous attempts have been blocked by Senate Democrats -- until now.

Senate Republican Leader Christine Radogno said problems with the scholarships are well-documented.