Illinois small business owners and taxpayers might not get a budget for Christmas.
Entering its fifth month this week without a budget, the state desperately needs a spending blueprint. But it might not come until January. In January, fewer votes are needed to pass a budget, making it a lighter legislative lift.
Lawmakers and the governor could find a policy sweet spot then, as Rauner has said he’s “cautiously optimistic that maybe in January we’ll get something done.”
On Tuesday, Dec. 1, Gov. Bruce Rauner and House Speaker Mike Madigan, along with leaders of the other caucuses, sat down for a meeting on the state’s budget crisis.
Looking ahead, Rauner is set to deliver his budget address on Feb. 17.
Until the state has a budget, NFIB and small business owners will continue to fight for much-needed business reforms, including overhauling workers’ compensation, and a fiscally prudent spending plan.
