A last-ditch attempt at a temporary budget represented the same untenable spending pattern that taxpayers cannot afford.
For years Illinois politicians have used borrowing and budgeting gimmicks to give the false appearance of balanced budget.
Flooding Springfield’s coffers with new money is a tried-and-failed approach.
The new fiscal year has started, and Illinois doesn’t have a state budget. Now what?
Money flowing to Illinois’ state and local governments grew much faster than the average Illinoisans’ paycheck from 1969-2012.
If the White House wants to give Puerto Rico the right to bankruptcy, it should extend the option to all states and territories.
As legislative leaders attempt to play games long seen in Springfield, Rauner remains resolute on breaking the status quo.
State money for city branding is nonessential.
As lawmakers stand at an impasse, different deadlines mean different things for Illinoisans.
The city’s long-term borrowing is akin to a Chicagoan taking on a mortgage to pay down credit-card bills she will never be able to pay off anyway.
House Speaker Mike Madigan wants tax hikes before any reforms pass. Of course, if there are tax hikes, there will not be reform.
The state gave $5.1 million to county fairs in fiscal year 2015, including $1.7 million for prizes and competitions.
The Tobacco Quitline’s admirable work is already being carried out at no cost to taxpayers.
Illinoisans need structure and fairness in their state government. But in Springfield, the rules are often written by the controlling party to its own advantage.