A lawmaker at the heart of pension talks says the time is winding down for lawmakers to address Illinois' approximately $96 billion in unfunded liability but she's optimistic that a proposal could come up for a vote during the lame duck session.

State Rep. Elaine Nekritz told reporters Sunday that she's hoping for a resolution, but details are still being worked out. Gov. Pat Quinn's spokeswoman says talks are ongoing.

A day earlier legislative leaders met in Chicago, but did not emerge with a definitive deal.

The House reconvened Sunday. New lawmakers are scheduled to be sworn in Wednesday.

A House pension committee meets Monday where lawmakers will consider an amended pensions bill that would freeze retiree's cost-of-living adjustments for a time, among other things.