By Adam Studzinski
SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Bruce Rauner spoke in Springfield Monday morning about the need to pass a stopgap budget and education funding by the end of the month.
Legislators are scheduled to be in session on Wednesday. Rauner said it appears they’re close to finding a stopgap budget deal.
“The supermajority has asked for more spending than what I think is appropriate. We do not want to put spending that causes more unpaid bills, and that is unaffordable, and would force a big tax hike on the people of Illinois next winter,” said Rauner. “But I we can work out a compromise and we’re pretty well there.”
Rauner added lawmakers should be done with a school funding bill, but the House Speaker and Senate President have asked to a change to the funding formula, and more money for Chicago Public Schools.
“They’ve basically threatened to hold up the entire funding process, and the budget process, for a bailout of CPS,” said Rauner. “Let me be clear, that is wrong. That is unfair. That’s just not reasonable for the children around the State of Illinois.”
Rauner requested a four leaders meeting for Tuesday. He hoped they can find some common ground and then be as productive as possible when lawmakers meet Wednesday.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
