Lawmakers in Springfield to Talk Pensions, Expulsion
If Illinois’ pension problems can be solved in one day, today (Friday) just may be the day. The governor has ordered the General Assembly to the Capitol today for a special session.
“The problem is probably worse than we thought it was,” said Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno (R-Lemont), “as Moody’s has told us the discount rate will be lowered.”
State Sen. Kirk Dillard (R-Hinsdale) says the governor should just throw the four legislative leaders into a room and lock the door until there’s a “template” for a solution. Radogno says that won’t work; there hasn’t been a meeting in eight weeks.
Sen. Bill Brady (R-Bloomington) suggests the Senate-passed bill covering only two of the five systems is a good start and may be a catalyst to complete the job.
Also on tap Friday, but separate from the special session: the vote on whether to expel State Rep. Derrick Smith (D-Chicago), who in the spring was accused of agreeing to take a bribe.
