Illinois Briefs - 12/28/11

Quinn:  Sears, Kmart Closures Disappointing

(Springfield, IL)  --   Sears Holdings just received a major tax deal to stay in Illinois, but now the company says they're closing more than 100 stores.  Governor Pat Quinn says the news is disappointing but it has nothing to do with the tax incentives that just passed.  Quinn says the recent deal was designed to keep the company's headquarters in Illinois, not individual stores.  It ensures more than six-thousand jobs stays in Illinois.  Quinn says the store closures will be spread across the U.S., but he hopes all of the stores in Illinois will stay open.

Quinn:  Jobs Biggest Issue In 2012

(Springfield, IL)  --  Governor Quinn says jobs is one of the biggest issues facing Illinois in 2012.  He says he'll lay out a plan to improve the state's economic outlook in his State of the State address on February 1st.  Quinn says Illinois is showing progress when it comes to job growth.  The state

added 30-thousand jobs last month.  The governor says he plans to keep people working by creating more opportunities for growth.

Farmer Challenging Schock For Congressional Seat

(Danvers, IL)  --  A Central Illinois farmer is looking to take Congressman Aaron Schock's seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.  Darrell Miller will square off with Schock for the 18th District seat in the Republican primary.  Miller isn't new to politics.  He ran an unsuccessful race in the 2010 election.  He lost to freshman Congressman Adam Kinzinger.  There are at least two Democrats eyeing the seat as well.  Steve Waterworth and Matthew Woodmancy will battle for the Democratic victory in the March 20th primary.

No More Electronics At Landfills

(Springfield, IL)  --  Garbage collectors in Illinois aren't allowed to pick up electronic devices after January 1st.  That means you'll have to find a new way to get rid of your TVs, VCRs, computer monitors, and keyboards.  The items are being banned from landfills across the state.  Resale shops such as the Goodwill and Salvation Army may be a good place to drop off your items.  Call the organizations to make sure they're being accepted before dropping them off.

Workers Comp Reform Efforts Continue

(Marion, IL)  --  Marion Representative John Bradley's efforts to improve the state's worker's compensation program continues.  He's been selected to serve on an advisory board designed to evaluate the system and recommend improvements.  Bradley was the lead negotiator for reform legislation passed earlier this year.  He says state officials will be able to refine the system by keeping a close eye on it.  Bradley says the board will look for the balance in keeping money in the pockets of job creators while still protecting injured workers.