Politics, More Than Pork, Drove the Pension Debacle
The pension crisis is a looming shadow of Springfield’s long mismanagement. It’s also a symbol of how the two sides can achieve politically unpopular compromise.
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After the Budget, the Battle Over What Happens Next, Or Doesn't
They can hope and pray, but the budget and tax hikes passed by Senate Democrats are likely to remain bills. But will they remain effective political fodder?
Illinois Senate Democrats Move Forward on a Balanced Budget
As the governor pushes structural reform, Dems push a balanced budget through the Senate. But will it lead anywhere?
The Illinois Budget Disaster, Explained
Whose fault is this? Why should you care? What can we do about it?
Budget Mayday: Illinois's Two-Year Financial Disaster
The Illinois Budget Disaster, Explained It's not that the state simply stopped spending money—in fact, we're spending more than we're taking in. Here's what led up to the budget impasse, how the state is handling its money now, and why you should care about ending it as soon as possible. What Would an Illinois Budget … Read more
Is Illinois Ready for Redistricting Reform?
It has widespread support, but failed last year in the Supreme Court. But its real value may be only as a trade chip.
Why Are Term Limits Such a Big Part of the Grand Bargain?
One answer: because it polls well and probably wouldn’t change very much. Another answer: Madigan.
What Would a Property-Tax Freeze Mean for Illinois?
It’s incredibly complicated. Freezing property taxes would shift the burden of cost-cutting to local governments—and experts say we need more legislation to make sure that doesn’t do too much damage.
What Is Workers' Comp Reform and Why Is It Part of the Budget Deal?
The governor wants to bring Illinois’s benefits down from some of the highest in the country, but Democrats aren’t thrilled about it.
Will Illinois Ever Solve Its Pension Problem?
Almost four years after the first try, pension reforms seems politically realistic—and perhaps legally as well.