Illinois Summary - 6/28/11
Tuesday, 28 June 2011 06:18
Illinois Politicians Weigh In On Blagojevich Verdict (Springfield, IL) -- Some of the state's top politicians are weighing in on the Blagojevich guilty verdict. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says he hopes the verdict finally closes the, quote, "sad and sordid chapter in Illinois history." Meanwhile, state Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka says Blagojevich's leadership, quote, "inflicted damage on Illinois that will take years if not generations to repair." She says a conviction that teaches lessons to other elected officials is likely the greatest contribution Blagojevich will ever make to the state.
Lieutenant Governor Says More Transparency Needed
(Springfield, IL) -- Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon says a guilty verdict for Rod Blagojevich means the state can move forward. Simon says the conviction indicates the need for stricter laws on open and transparent government. Simon has championed more transparency since she took office. All of her top staff members are required to make their financial records public.
Quinn Says Blagojevich Verdict Highlights Need For More Ethics Reform
(Springfield, IL) -- Governor Pat Quinn says it's time to put ethics reform in the hands of citizens. He says a stronger recall policy will give citizens more control. Right now, voters can remove the governor from office, but that's the extent of it. The plan to include all elected officials hasn't gained traction among lawmakers. Quinn says the guilty verdict of Rod Blagojevich has strengthened his resolve to pass the measure.
Governor To Sign Workers Compensation
(Springfield, IL) -- It's a big day for Illinois businesses. Governor Pat Quinn will sign the worker's compensation package aimed at protecting employers from false injury claims. The move is expected to save businesses 500-million dollars a year by reducing reimbursement rates for doctors. Lawmakers made adjustments to the current system in the final hours of session last month. Governor Quinn was behind the push for reform.
Backseat Safety Belts Now Required In All Vehicles
(Springfield, IL) -- Backseat passengers will soon be required to buckle up. Chief Deputy Jack Campbell with the Springfield Sheriff's Department says the new law will help keep traffic fatalities down. There are a few exemptions. Passengers in busses, taxi-cabs, and emergency vehicles will not be required to strap in. Governor Quinn signed the measure yesterday, but it doesn't take effect until January 1st.
Congressman Shimkus Says Economy Must Get Back On Track
(Godfrey, IL) -- U.S. Congressman John Shimkus says something needs to be done to get the economy back on track. The Collinsville Republican says getting the nation's finances under control will help when it comes to job creation. He admits no one has the answer on how to solve the problem. The discussion has led to heated debates in Washington. The top two Republicans say Democrats of causing an impasse by insisting on tax hikes on the wealthy to boost revenues.
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