Gov. Bruce Rauner's has called state lawmakers back to session to consider a budget plan and reforms put forth by the Republican Party on Wednesday.
“Republicans in the General Assembly have laid out a compromise budget plan that I can sign," Rauner said in a video release. "It provides a true path to property tax reduction, and it reforms the way our state operates to reduce wasteful spending. It will fund our schools and human services while spurring economic growth and job creation. It is a true compromise and one I hope the majority in the General Assembly will accept.”
The General Assembly adjourned on May 31 without passing a budget for fiscal year 2018, which begins in July. It then went into special session, which is scheduled to end on June 30. Rauner's announcement provides for a 10-day focused session beginning on June 21.
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Governor Bruce Rauner
The GOP's proposed budget includes a four-year property tax freeze, term limits and a limited income tax increase that will expire in four years.
If the Legislature fails to pass a budget before July 1, the state faces additional difficulties, including further downgrades in its credit rating, removal from the Powerball and Mega Millions lottery games, and lawsuits filed by a consortium of social service agencies for failure to pay its contracts.
“We have tough, urgent choices to make, and the Legislature must be present to make them,” Rauner said. “In the days ahead, let’s show the people of Illinois we have their best interests in mind, not our own. And together, we will move our state forward to a better and brighter future.”
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