
Illinois has made too many financial promises it can't keep.
That's the word from one state representative. This, as lawmakers are considering a measure to cap any wage increases for state employees in contract negotiations between their unions and the governor's office. They've been unable to reach an agreement to replace a contract that expired in June. Union reps aren't happy with the proposal, they said it would restrict their right to negotiate, and argue state employees shouldn't have to pay for politicians' problems.
In the mean time, Governor Pat Quinn said he wants to work with lawmakers on a refinancing plan to pay down some of the state's $8 billion in overdue bills.