Rauner To Pin Budget Message On Education
Teresa Crawford/AP Photo
Education may once again receive special treatment from Republican Governor Bruce Rauner. He's set to unveils his plans for the state budget later Wednesday.
Rauner is in an unprecedented position: he's required to present a plan for a new, balanced state budget when Illinois is eight months into its current fiscal year without one and is running a $6 billion deficit.
But a document from Rauner's office shows he'll again propose a windfall for pre-K through high schools.
The governor's office claims the funding bump will lay the foundation for reform of how Illinois funds schools -- a priority for leading Democrats -- though it's unclear how.
The short memo doesn't say where Illinois will come up with the extra $1.25 billion. There's no mention of new taxes or other new revenue.
Illinois Lawmakers will provide live coverage of the governor's budget address, beginning at 12 PM Wednesday, on WILL-TV and WILL AM 580 (streaming at willnews.org).
Before the budget address, WILL AM 580 presents a one-hour special on the state budget, hosted by Niala Boodhoo, host of WILL's new talk show, The 21st.
Links
- With Budget Address Looming, Higher Ed Makes Funding Plea
- State Rep. Ammons On The State Budget Impasse
- State Sen. Righter On The Budget Impasse In Illinois
- Rauner Seeks ‘Mutual Respect’ In State Of The State, But Skips Budget Hardships
- University Presidents Say Schools Hurting Without Budget
- New Year’s Resolutions For State Leaders In A Word: Budget!
- Significant Budget Cuts at Western Illinois University, And More Are Likely