Many of Illinois' public universities say they are underfunded. Some state lawmakers are hoping to change that – directing more money to smaller state schools. But there’s also opposition-notably from the flagship University of Illinois system. 

Statehouse editor Brian Mackey sat down with J.B. Pritzker over the weekend for a conversation focused on his policy agenda, the problems facing Illinois, and ethics in government.

Governor Bruce Rauner signed two higher education bills on Tuesday aimed at curbing the out-migration of Illinois high school graduates attending college across state lines.

On The 21st: How would Republican tax reform plans affect higher education in the United States? Plus, we learn more about sanctuary cities and the story of Francisca Lino, while also hearing about the 1967 voyage of Chicago transplant Francis Brenton. 

There are many ways to track the toll of the state’s nearly two-year-old budget standoff. On the campuses of Illinois' public universities, one is the number of jobs cut.