A FEW OF THE BILLS WERE CALLED FOR A VOTE…RECEIVING EITHER NO’S OR PRESENT VOTES FROM G-O-P LAWMAKERS. REPUBLICANS ARGUED THAT THERE SHOULDN’T BE ANY VOTES UNTIL THE ENTIRE PACKAGE IS FULLY NEGOTIATED. SENATOR DON HARMON OF OAK PARK DISAGREED.

 

 

SENATE PRESIDENT JOHN CULLERTON HAD SAID HE’D START CALLING BILLS IN THE LARGE BUDGET AND REFORM PACKAGE THIS WEEK. BUT SENATE MINORITY LEADER CHRISTINE RADOGNO SAYS SHE WAS SURPRISED HE WENT AHEAD WITH THE VOTES…SINCE THE ENTIRE DEAL IS STILL UNDER NEGOTIATION.

 

 

THE SENATE PASSED BILL REGARDING LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONSOLIDATION AND PROCUREMENT REFORM BUT A MORE CONTROVERSIAL BILL ON PENSION REFORM FAILED.