Quinn, Lawmaklers Set Stage for Budget Talks

Gov. Pat Quinn is eager to build support for his proposed income tax increase, so he chided lawmakers yesterday Tuesday for not raising taxes to help fix a budget deficit of at least $11.6 billion.

Quinn didn't offer up any new cost-cutting suggestions but he said he would be willing to listen to anyone. The Democratic governor remained optimistic he could get a budget paid for by a tax increase in place by July 1 when the new fiscal year begins.

Quinn wants the income tax increase to stave off cuts he says will decimate state human services programs.

In response, Quinn is pressuring lawmakers by pledging not to sign the $28 billion statewide construction program they want until they give him a balanced budget.

Michael Madigan's spokesman Steve Brown says the House speaker would continue to meet and work cooperatively with Quinn.