SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — It’s the second day of a budget special session, but it looks like lawmakers aren’t making any progress in approving a spending plan.
The Democrat-controlled House and Senate met briefly Thursday. The House was expected to hear testimony later on workers’ compensation. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner has pushed for pro-business reforms in conjunction with a budget.
He called a special session to force a deal before July 1. Otherwise, Illinois will enter its third year without a budget.
Senate Democrats are pushing a $37.3 billion plan that includes cuts and an income tax increase. It was approved without GOP votes.
Republicans are pushing their plan, which includes reforms, along with an income tax increase. But they haven’t filed the revenue legislation, which Democrats say is critical. Republicans say they don’t want to start negotiations with tax talk.