Rauner's letter says the summit will be streamed-live online, and open to the press. So whatever the governor and the legislative leaders do -- or don't do -- at that long-awaited meeting, will be on full, public display.

Illinois' contract with the state's largest employee union expires at the end of the month and negotiations with the governor are said to be going badly. Democrats are trying to prevent a potential strike but the governor might have other plans.

If passed, gaming expansion could serve as an advantage to cities like Danville.  A panel of lawmakers from both chambers, which includes House Assistant Republican Leader Chad Hays of Catlin, meets for the first time Tuesday.

Former lawmaker Bill Black served in the Illinois House from 1986 to 2010, and worked to ensure safety on the Stony Creek Bridge.