Illinois Briefs - 11/26/12

Lawmakers In Session This Week

(Springfield, IL)  --  It could be a big week for lawmakers in Springfield this week.  They're expected to vote on several issues during veto session, including gay marriage, concealed carry, gambling expansion, and allowing illegal immigrants to get driver's licenses.  The pension issue is also still on the table but lawmakers are expected to hold off on that vote until early January.

Lawmakers To Consider Employee Salary Caps

(Springfield, IL)  --  State employees could have their salaries capped as lawmakers look to get the budget under control.  A House committee will meet today to discuss the plan, which would set limits on wage increases for union workers.  The idea began circulating last year as the government employees union contract was about to expire.  They've been at the bargaining table with Governor Quinn for nearly a year without reaching a compromise.  Governor Quinn finally cancelled the contract last week after claiming the union won't give up on the idea of pay raises.

List of Jackson Replacements Getting Long

(Chicago, IL)   --  The list of potential candidates looking to replace former Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson, Junior is getting long.  Quite a few people are reportedly eyeing the seat, including Jackson's wife Sandi Jackson, former state representative David Miller, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, former Cook County Board President Todd Stroger, and even Rod Blagojevich's attorney Sam Adam, Junior has expressed interest in the seat.  Jackson resigned last week after a five-month absence for health reasons.  A special election will be held next spring so voters can choose a replacement.

Shoppers To Get Online Deals Today

(Undated)  --  Today is Cyber Monday, the online version of Black Friday.  Shoppers are expected to save big as online retailers slash costs to kick-off their holiday shopping season.  Cyber Monday has been around for about five years and reports indicate its popularity has grown each year.  Shoppers reportedly spent more than a billion dollars on Cyber Monday in the past two years.