Illinois Briefs - 1/3/12

State Considers New Child Support Method

(Springfield, IL)  --  State officials are considering a plan to make the child support payment method more transparent.  Right now the non-custodial parent pays a flat percentage rate based on his or her income.  The new "income shares" method would calculate payments based on the combined income of both parents.  State officials say it better reflects the needs of the child.  The switch to income shares is still in the developmental stage.  Any changes would have to be cleared through the state's legislature.

No Spousal Benefits For Couples In Civil Unions

(Springfield, IL)  --  Springfield city workers engaged in a civil union are being denied spousal health care coverage, but nearly 100 people are expressing concern over the matter.  They've signed a petition that's being circulated by advocacy group, "Equality Illinois."  The group is asking the Springfield City

Council to reverse the decision made by the Joint Labor Management Health Care Committee.  The committee claims the health care coverage would cost the city 725-thousand dollars.  Officials with Equality Illinois say that number is inflated.  They say denying health care benefits is a slap in the face and a direct violation of the state's new Civil Unions Law.  To get information or to sign the petition, go to Eqil.org.

President John Cullerton Pleased With 2011

(Springfield, IL)  --  Senate President John Cullerton is pleased with the legislative accomplishments of 2011.  He cites more than half a dozen pieces of legislation as major accomplishments including the death penalty repeal, civil unions, and reforms in education and the workers compensation system.  Lawmakers will be back in Springfield at the end of the month to start tackling issues left undone, such as repealing the income tax hike for businesses.

Romney Files To Appear On Illinois Ballot

(Springfield, IL)  --  All eyes are on Iowa today as the nation prepares to select a Republican presidential candidate, but Mitt Romney's Illinois team is paving the way for the candidate to appear on the Illinois ballot.  State Treasurer Dan Rutherford serves as Romney's election Chairman in Illinois.  Rutherford is hand delivering the necessary paperwork to the state's board of elections today.  The Illinois primary will be held March 20th.

Gas Prices On Rise

(Springfield, IL)  --  Illinois drivers are dishing out more cash at the pump these days.  The average cost of gas rose about eight cents over the past week.   Patrick DeHaan with GasBuddy.com says it's a trend that tends to come with the New Year.  He says gas prices in Central and Southern Illinois should round out at about three dollars and fifty cents during the winter months.

Cats Auditions Coming Up

(Marion, IL)  --  Southern Illinoisans with dreams of being on the big stage have an opportunity to audition for "Cats."  Auditions are being held today from 5 until 9 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Marion Cultural Center.  Roles are available for people of all ages who live in the 14 southern counties of the state.  Those interested in a singing role should bring a prepared solo and CD.  Anyone who'd like a dancing role should come prepared to learn a short dance.  For details, call (618) 922-1853.