Senate Week in Review: June 10 – 14, 2013
Despite a stalemate between the legislature’s top Democrat leaders, lawmakers are scheduled to return to Springfield for a special session on June 19 to consider public employee pension reform. However, when taking into account the impasse between the Senate President and the House Speaker—and Governor Quinn’s inability or unwillingness to take charge—State Sen. Kirk Dillard said that as of June 14 the prospects for a major breakthrough appear slim.
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Latest flooding information
"Read more" to download a FAQ form for local government officials regarding the federal assistance process for those counties impacted by the spring flooding, as well as information on Disaster Assistance Loans for residents and businesses.
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Fitch Ratings lowers state’s credit rating
Despite boasting overwhelming majorities in both chambers, Governor Pat Quinn, House Speaker Michael Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton were unable or unwilling to negotiate a compromise on what was widely considered to be the most important issue of the spring legislative session: pension reform. As a result, just days after both houses adjourned, Fitch Ratings lowered its rating on outstanding Illinois general obligations bonds from “A” to “A-” with a negative outlook—meaning further reductions could occur.
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Dillard bill increases penalties for limo, bus drivers drunk behind the wheel
In the waning hours of the 2013 spring legislative session, the Illinois General Assembly approved legislation sponsored by State Sen. Kirk Dillard (R-Hinsdale) that would allow for increased penalties for those found guilty of driving under the influence while transporting passengers in a school bus, limousine or vehicle for hire.
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Dillard bill to help finance cancer research efforts approved by Senate lawmakers
Legislation is headed to the Governor’s desk that State Sen. Kirk Dillard (R-Hinsdale) says will raise funds to further the mission of The H Foundation and Northwestern University’s Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center to pursue life-saving cancer research.
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