* 2:24 pm - Once again, we’re waiting to see what the governor will do with the operating budget. Hang loose.

* 2:32 pm - The governor has signed several bills into law already today. Go check them out here.

The governor has relentlessly complained about corporate loopholes, but he did sign one loophole into law today. Senate Bill 455 has this synopsis…

Amends the Use Tax Act. Provides a tax exemption for the use of aircraft that: (i) leave this State after the purchase of the aircraft; (ii) are temporarily located in this State for the purpose of a prepurchase evaluation; or (iii) are temporarily located in this State for the purpose of a post-sale customization. Amends the Retailers’ Occupation Tax Act. Provides a tax exemption for the sale of aircraft that leave this State after the purchase of the aircraft. Provides that the Acts’ sunset provisions do not apply to these exemptions. Effective immediately.

* 3:22 pm - This week’s WDWS podcast features retiring state Rep. Bill Black. Go listen. Hat tip: IP.

* 4:25 pm - From Politics1…

It only took one day, but all four Dems who had been running to succeed Congressman Luis Gutierrez (D) quit the race after the incumbent reversed course and announce his intent to seek re-election next year.

*** 4:47 pm *** OK, so now I’m hearing it will likely be tomorrow at the earliest before they do anything with the budget bill. Apparently, there’s still a lot of work to do. While the lid is not securely on tight, I’m giving up for the day. I’ll check back occasionally, but you’re released.

* Ah, the “good” ol’ days…

“Get off the soapbox. Save that for the Tribune.”