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The scary thing is that some people are already getting nervous about an extended legislative session this year.

It is supposed to conclude by the end of May, as usual, but lawmakers are already wondering if the stage is being set for a protracted session that could drag out for much of the summer.

“We could see a revisit of 2004, when we were here all summer long trying to hash these things out,” said Rep. ELAINE NEKRITZ, D-Northbrook, after the budget speech last week. […]

While many Democrats favor increased taxes to help ease the need for budget cuts, Rauner has said he wants no new revenues. Nekritz said she doesn’t see a tax hike passing with only Democratic votes. If Republicans won’t support more revenue and all the budget balancing has to come from cuts, look out.

That 2004 session was brutal and didn’t end until Democrats started to worry that they could overshadow US Sen. Obama’s keynote address at the Democratic National Convention.

Of course, the 2007 and 2008 overtimes were even worse.

* Peoria Journal Star…

Last week at the Peoria County Democrats’ Presidents Day Dinner, state Sen. Dave Koehler suggested he and wife Nora weren’t planning on any vacations during the summer, given some of the fights that could be brewing in Springfield, especially over right-to-work zones that Rauner has proposed.

Immediately after the governor’s budget address, state Rep. David Leitch, R-Peoria, made the same prediction, albeit for different reasons.

With Rauner proposing to slay — or at least hobble — so many sacred budgetary cows in order to get Illinois government back to spending what it can afford to spend, so many different people have different reasons to be obstructionist. That includes legislators, lobbyists and state employees.

Drawn-out negotiations will not be a surprise, along with some heated language, both in public and behind closed doors. Although to their credit, Rauner and legislative leaders have been so far restrained and respectful. That signals this won’t be another Blagojevich-like breakdown in communications.

* The Question: Do you think the legislative session will go into overtime this year? Take the poll and then explain your answer in comments, please.

feedback surveys

posted by Rich Miller
Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 10:57 am

Comments

“Do you think the legislative session will go into overtime this year?”

I voted “yes”. Why? Because I see no reason to be optimistic about anything.

– MrJM

Comment by MrJM Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:00 am
Rauner negotiation skills will demand it.

Comment by Liberty Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:01 am
Yes, for two reasons, the main one being the Democrats finally want Republican votes so the 3/5ths threshold post-June 1 isn’t a deterrent anymore.

Second, your Uh Oh post from late on Friday. If Cullerton and Madigan aren’t pulling in the same direction it’s going to be a long, hot summer in Springfield. Remember when Emil stuck with Rod? If Madigan sticks with Rauner, it’ll be the same thing on steroids.

Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:01 am
There will be a learning curve in how the GA and the Governor’s office will operate.

Comment by Bogey Golfer Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:04 am
There is no way this will be settled on time. If that were going to happen, the fantasy budget wouldn’t have been tossed out like it was, and Rauner wouldn’t continue to talk as though he were trying to win the primary nod.

Comment by How Ironic Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:04 am
I voted yes.

But you can paint my hair and call me Pate, I am still going fishing overtime or not.

Comment by siriusly Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:04 am
I said Yes, because I do not see much give on either side, and the Governor does not seem like a guy that compromises too often.

Comment by He Makes Ryan Look like a Saint Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:05 am
Yes, the gop in the ga cant afford to support rauners budget proposals; and i doubt Madigan will push his people to support without significant gop votes.

Gop is in a corner they created with the anti-tax cut our way out mantra. The majority of them are in districts where those cuts can not be afforded.

One way out, the ga agrees on a budget that does not do what rauner wants. Rauner tokenly complains but privately agrees to still use his slush fund to help gop fills who support it. Budget passes; rauner complains its the wrong way to go putting up token complaints, but signs it.

Comment by Ghost Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:06 am
Yes. First, there’s a game of chicken going on here that should last long.

Second, Senate Dems will not run the budget without a majority of Republicans. I suspect that will take a long time before they really get that. They’re just out of practice at governing.

Comment by Chicago Cynic Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:07 am
This is like a volcano. After years of pressure building up and kicking the can down the road, it eventually begins to erupt.

Whether that eruption will be a slow release of pressure over may years with slow moving lava or a single spectacular eruption is up to our dear public officials managing this situation. Will they collaborate or greedily fight one another as the volcano erupts?

Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:07 am
Well… it is hard to “shut things down for awhile” if there is actually a budget. The Rauner strategy calls for no budget. Even if the dems manage to pass a budget, it will get vetoed. And I doubt their budget passes with their veto-proofed majority. The legislature will be in session all May and June. The governor already told us so in the primary.

Comment by Ducky LaMoore Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:08 am
It will take Radogno and Durkin until the middle of July to get their 47 and 20 votes in line for Governor R’s budget..

Comment by Not Rich Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:09 am
How could it not? I think we’ll be lucky if there’s a budget by the end of July. With Rauner insisting that Republicans march in lockstep with his agenda and threatening them if they don’t, and Madigan insisting on Republican votes, it’s going to take a lot of pain before this is settled. Minnesota had a 20 day shutdown recently, I really think it will take us at least that long to arrive at a budget.

Comment by AC Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:10 am
Yes, because of a not very well publicized part of the Rauner campaign platform, “increase the Capitol Fax ad rates.” Overtime is a great way to do that!

Comment by Precinct Captain Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:11 am
Whatever people think the endgame is now, the Supremes will throw a wrench into those plans with only a few weeks left– including, perhaps, a remand for fact-finding on whether or not we’ve got a real emergency.

And who would put any votes on cuts or revenues until that happens, anyway?

Comment by vibes Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:13 am
What Chicago Cynic said.

Comment by Aldyth Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:14 am
New guy thinks he can bully the entire GA.

He is deaf to screams of suffering due to cuts.

He doesn’t have a social agenda. He sees “costs” not public goods.

Comment by Langhorne Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:14 am
A qualified YES.

I think they will jam it thru at midnight, but then Rauner will not sign it and force a call back.

And that’s the least harmful confrontation to be feared. Legal actions, walkouts and lockouts, failure to pay, issuing scrip in lieu of paychecks, caucuses hiding out somewhere, the imagination soars.

Hope I am wrong.

Comment by walker Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:14 am
Yes.
It is in MJM’s political benefit for it to happen. Rauner has played his role so badly he has opened himself up to a severe political loss. There is no reason to treat the new governor better than Blagojevich, who was from his own party politically. So the partisan politics will allow for a complete scalping of the new governor.

This year’s budget fight will be Rauner’s Little Big Horn. By May, the blossom will have fallen off the Rauner novelty and he will go down like George Custer.

Comment by VanillaMan Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:15 am
I would think it will take until a least mid-July for GA members (mostly GOP) to understand the fairy dust and magic beans approach simply is not an option.

It’s going take some heat being applied from the locals before some members “get it”. No matter if it’s tomorrow or May, June, July or later, you either increase revenue or destroy state gvt and services.

Comment by Give Me A Break Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:16 am
Yes, what 47 said. I think Madigan and Cullerton will welcome the necessity of additional GOP votes after June 1.

Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:20 am
Clearly yes. Personalities vying for the inevitable King of the Hill crown. Madigan won’t be a pushover Bruce! (Fur will be a flyin’)

Comment by I B Strapped Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:21 am
Considering the responses, perhaps I should’ve asked how long the OT will be.

lol

Comment by Rich Miller Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:21 am
VanillaMan, you are on fire today!

Comment by Avery's Binky Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:21 am
Voted YES. Neither the GOP or Dems want to fully cooperate with each other on revenue issues, which are extremely necessary. After the pension reform bill is tossed aside by the ILSC, the debate on more revenue will take a long time to settle down and vote to reinstate the 5% income tax. Hoopefully, some of the programs that are not cost-effective will be reduced or eliminated first. Then when Rauner can’t count on the pension bill savings that he already has in his budget, we might see some progress to come up with a 2016 budget that be passed. But all this will take a LONG time.

Comment by Big Joe Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:21 am
It all depends on if Rahm forced into a run off. If there IS a run off Rahm and rauner will have to play nice but if Rahm wins on Tuesday watch for the full Rahmner attack on Chicago and Illinois, 50 more schools closed, ect.

Comment by William j Kelly Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:24 am
Yes. Becuase what is the incentive to get done? dems don’t have one. They will demand x R votes which will be more than they can muster.

And we’ll see if the Gov is mor like Thompson or others when it comes to getting the deal done.

Comment by Todd Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:25 am
Voted “Yes”

Why?

1) - 47th Ward -’s comment.

2) The “good cop / bad cop” routine Cullerton and MJM are running now.

3) Getting “bad news” passed early and without a “fight” for the cuts and budget isn’t going to help come petition time in December.

If the Governor thinks he can wait out Session AND negotiate contracts that are going to be contentious AND get to 60 and 30 his way, I have to go “yes”.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:25 am
Voted YES! Check the Madigan vacation schedule and plans to see for how long.

Comment by Enemy of the State Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:26 am
Multiple rock and hard place viewpoints who have no reason to change. If you are going to shake things up, you are just starting. Until pressure comes from home, “what’s in it for me” will be the GA mantra. They will all have jobs with paychecks. Back home many people will not.

Comment by zatoichi Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:28 am
There will be overtime unless Rauner compromises on tax hikes and relents on some of his spending cuts that target the poorest residents. Democrats are willing to compromise, too, but will not and should not simply agree to the Rauner-IPI proposal.

Comment by anon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:29 am
I voted yes because that’s how we roll here. We have a very difficult time passing key fiscal legislation.

Comment by Grandson of Man Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:29 am
Yes. State government with either be shutdown or call for a strike in July. It’s gonna be ugly if Rauner doesn’t move to the center.

Comment by From the 'Dale to HP Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:30 am
The next question is what are the NO’s using?

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? It will take the crisis of overtime to get the folks to move beyond this paradox.

Comment by Norseman Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:32 am
“..Rep. Elaine Nekritz and Sen. Daniel Biss, who both worked very hard on the Legislature’s pension reform law, cannot fathom how Rauner’s proposal to move every state employee and public school teacher into the lower-cost “Tier Two” pension plan on July 1 will actually save that much money…”,

“..“We could see a revisit of 2004, when we were here all summer long trying to hash these things out,” said Rep. ELAINE NEKRITZ, D-Northbrook…”

Being able to fathom how Governor Rauners plans will work in advance is nearly as mesmerizing as the inability of many of our Legislators ability to understand constitutional law.., yet we continue allow them to hold positions where they draft and pass laws without ever understanding the legality of their actions.

Give the Governor a chance. It will take sometime to reverse the death spiral that Illinois is in. After all, it took many years and many legislative sessions to get us in the mess we are in today.

Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:32 am
==Considering the responses, perhaps I should’ve asked how long the OT will be.==

Given how depressing the near universal belief that there will be overtime is, perhaps you should have considered a post of Oscar playing in the snow instead. The budget isn’t just depressing, it may finally answer the immovable object vs irresistible force question in a spectacular way.

Comment by AC Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:32 am
It’s inevitable. Until Rauner proves he can lead with sane proposals the GA can work with, we’ll have a Mexican standoff with all parties.

Comment by Wensicia Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:37 am
Illinois isn’t Wisconsin. All of the folks here like to make deals and I wouldn’t under estimate this comment from the Peroria Journal link, “Although to their credit, Rauner and legislative leaders have been so far restrained and respectful. That signals this won’t be another Blagojevich-like breakdown in communications.” My bet’s things go much smoother than anyone expects.

Comment by Bill Baar Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:38 am
Yes. I said the other day that someone better have a bill in their back pocket to pay salaries for at least 3 months after July 1.

Comment by RNUG Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:43 am
===My bet’s things go much smoother than anyone expects.===

I’ll take some of that action. See, the problem isn’t really between the Dem leaders and Rauner. The problem is with the GOP leaders and finding the votes in their caucuses for a budget Rauner wants to sign. So far, there aren’t many GOP votes for new taxes, and there aren’t many GOP votes for the proposed cuts.

That’s where the problem is. And it’s going to be on Rauner to get ‘er done.

Comment by 47th Ward Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:43 am
===That signals this won’t be another Blagojevich-like breakdown in communications.” ===

Are you talking about the “Blago Caucus Plan” that Rauner finally put into play with $20 million? That communication?

I can agree with you if, and only if, Rauner bullies the GOP Caucuses to their own demise, and if both Democratic leaders feel the damage inflicted outweighs the damage to the state, that they hope will be “minimal” in their own eyes.

Even those parameters, it’s dicey at best.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:45 am
I think they will wrap up on time. One of his main focuses seems to be the decertying the unions before the big contact fight. Having all the Reps and Sens home and not in Springfield should help this goal.
He cannot do it all in the first budget he has at least three more to get to those goals.

Comment by Annon3 Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:45 am
VM: I think it’s an up-side that you referred to Custer rather than, say, Homer and the Odyssea. Maybe there’s hope yet.

Comment by Skeptic Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:49 am
Yes. I presume the IL S Ct issues its pension ruling and throws out the law or sends it back down for further proceedings. This will underscore need for action. Bond rating agencies will agitate for meaningful change, causing more push for change.
Seems the can can’t be kicked anymore, so GA will have to do something beyond “smoke and mirrors.”
Is a progressive income tax off the table? Seems this may be one of the few palatable solutions.

Comment by Cook County Commoner Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:50 am
===Is a progressive income tax off the table?===

Constitutional Amendment by May?

That’s really all that needs to be said about that.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:52 am
If they’re talking about it now in February, it’s hard to imagine it won’t happen. Voted Yes.

Comment by A guy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:52 am
I said yes…..Rauner does not seem willing to look at revenue so he won’t push his party to support that. Dems don’t want service cuts so Voila we have an impasse

Comment by illinifan Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:52 am
The pre-approved Raunerbot talking point about “fixing things from years past” makes no sense in regards to his proposed FY16 budget.

His proposal is at least $3 billion out of whack. It has nothing to do with previous years. It’s his, and his alone.

Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:53 am
==Because I see no reason to be optimistic about anything==.

Until Friday, I would have said a budget crisis this bad sobers them and forces them together. Like in 2012, hammering out a line budget together after years of lump sum.

What changed? As @47th said, Rich’s Friday ==Uh Oh== post. And Greg Hinz’s Saturday post reminding ==Cullerton leads what must be the most liberal caucus any Illinois legislative body has had in decades. He is not shy about talking.==

If Cullerton tries using the 2015 budget bomb he partially created to hold the 2016 budget hostage, things are going to messy. The 2015 budget fix should be a simple first thing they can all work on in good faith, helping build momentum for positive 2016 budget negotiations. But if Cullerton insists on drawing blood to get his help fixing the 2015 budget, then the well is poisoned for 2016 negotiations and beyond.

Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:55 am
Answer: Yes. Explanation: Bruce Rauner and Donna Arduin.

Comment by ChiTown Seven Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:00 pm
Absolutely…things will still be in the hashing out process by the end of May…the legislators will be lucky to be at the 4th of July parades this year…

Comment by Loop Lady Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:02 pm
@FKA, from what I’m hearing, the only person holding hostages over the FY15 fix is the governor. Still demanding emergency powers for all four years. That’s a nonstarter for any sane person, regardless of party.

Comment by Reality Check Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:06 pm
I voted yes. If Rauner had presented a budget based on real numbers, I would have voted no, but now it’s going to take extra time to get to a place from which to start negotiating.

Comment by Earnest Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:13 pm
By the way, we do expect to hear people complaining about working a few extra weeks.

However, considering that most House members are making $70,000 a year for part time work, they may want to keep those complaints to themselves.

Comment by Gooner Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:20 pm
voted yes, I think those that have reservations for ANY destination other than Springfield in June should start an auction page for auctioning off vacation plans. sorry

Comment by railrat Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:22 pm
Why? There is no where to go but down the rabbit hole.

Comment by Mama Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:23 pm
- siriusly - Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 11:04 am: == Bring your fishing pole to the Capitol and put a dollar bill on the end of it. Have fun fishing.

Comment by Mama Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:27 pm
Yes Labor day looks like they could get it together by then. By then every one I think will be tired of playing kick the can. The electret has had enough of the clown act going on in Springfield and Washington. Worker’s Comp and pensions have to be addressed. I hope our legislators want to get some thing done. Instead of just collecting pay checks.

Comment by Mokenavince Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:30 pm
You mean they may have to work more then 6 months!! The general public complains about teachers working 9 months and yet, don’t say anything about these folks.

Comment by Union Man Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:42 pm
Sheesh. So much doom and gloom.
Done early.
End of session party kicks off May 22.
Keep hope alive!

Comment by Michelle Flaherty Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:45 pm
Assuming the real solution is a progressive tax, I only see one fiscally responsible way to get there. Pass another “temporary” income tax increase but make the sunset contingent on a vote on a graduated tax amendment to the public. Specify the sunset to occur at one of two dates: (a) if the amendment passes, the “temporary” tax goes away when the amendment takes effect or (b) if the amendment fails, the “temporary” tax goes away December 31 following the vote.

Comment by RNUG Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 12:54 pm
This is why we have a representative democracy!

Comment by forwhatitsworth Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:00 pm
Done on time. Neither party will want to be pinned with the responsibility of forcing overtime and screaming headlines.

Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:01 pm
@Reality Check - Rauner and Madigan both said a 2015 budget fix was literally ==days away==. Then Cullerton spoke up late Friday, giving the 2016 budget as his reason for wanting to apply the brakes and ==contradicting assertions this week from the governor and House Speaker==.

While four year emergency powers should be a nonstarter, the holdup appears to be Cullerton, not Rauner or Madigan.

Comment by Formerly Known As... Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:04 pm
===Neither party will want to be pinned with the responsibility of forcing overtime and screaming headlines.===

Nope.

Rauner is the one cutting programs and shutting down orphanages. Democrats are fighting that. That’s the narrative.

Optics.

This will be hung on Rauner and his Draconian cuts.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:05 pm
I strongly suspect that Rauner will compromise on revenue and drag Republicans with him, but none of this will happen until the Dems are ready to seriously deal also and not until everything has gone to the wall. It wouldn’t surprise me at all to see this go nearly to Labor Day.

Comment by Skirmisher Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:06 pm
Thats just it Louis, no single party will hold the blame…they just have to figure out how to divvy it up, and structure the votes…

Comment by Loop Lady Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:07 pm
An odd twist to all of this is if Rauner is really just floating trial balloons to get where he really wants to be. Thats a common tactic in the private sector, open with something far afield from what you really want so that when you haggle down younstill
Come out ahead; and floating tje balloons goves you
Some insight into what you might actually be able to get.

Comment by Ghost Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:09 pm
I said no. The GA will realize early on they are dealing with the ideological fringe and forge their own path..

Comment by Mouthy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:15 pm
This is somewhat like asking if a frogs rear quarters are able to repel moisture…..

Comment by Ghost Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:26 pm
I voted no. Or perhaps a few days to tie up technical details.

Rauner has hired experienced (in dealing with the legislature) staff to advise him and I would guess that both sides know pretty well what the end product will be. It will include a tax increase,perhaps time-limited, some cuts, and a lot of smoke and mirrors. There will be no shutdown. The only unresolved issue is how public blame will be apportioned. The parties probably have some ideas about that too.

If Rauner can get an agreement without a shutdown and with a temporary tax re-hike, this will not be an issue in his re-election bid in 2018 because voters will have forgotten all about it.
Four years is a long time, and they were already paying it. Better for Rauner to raise agin it now then lower it later if he can.

Comment by Cassandra Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:26 pm
I think there’s a decent Chace ghost is right. What he describes is basic negotiation. It’s just that it hasn’t been seen awhile since it has been seen in these parts. #nimby

Comment by chicon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:29 pm
Meant “chance” above.

Comment by chicon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:31 pm
Voted yes. The sacred cow issue will be huge for both sides….cut theirs, not ours! Likely will last through the better part of summer.

Comment by Sunshine Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:34 pm
Of course they will, as they should. They lobbied a long time that the GA was a “full time job”, they’re well paid for the GA being a full time job, especially considering bene’s, so they shouldn’t complain.

I think what frustrates the GA members is that few provide anything productive to the process. They just walk in and vote how they’re told, WHEN they’re told.

Just like taxpayers don’t like to see their money wasted, the GA doesn’t want its precious leisure time wasted.

Comment by Arizona Bob Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:35 pm
RNUG has a good plan about combining a temporary tax hike with a vote on the graduated tax — except that Rauner would not sign that bill since he is for some reason absolutely opposed to graudated taxes.

Comment by anon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:41 pm
=== the main problem is with GOP leaders finding the votes ===

That will make it an entertaining session for Democrats!

Comment by anon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:43 pm
All the incentives to work towards an on-time adjournment are nit present this year. That’s just a different way of saying what 47th Ward said.

There are other factors, but all of them lead towards a protracted stalemate.

It will be a good year for Springfield restaurants and bars.

Comment by the Other Anonymous Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 1:45 pm
@ Arizona Bob
I guess being hell bent to deaminize and layoff workers is what Rauner is asking for. He’s beginning to realize what it’s like looking in the mirror. One thing you forgot to mention is reforming both types of welfare. Taxpayers don’t like to see their money wasted when individuals are constructively forced to go on public assistance. Why not make public what everyone in a supervisory role makes? He knows you can’t serve two masters, so back up all the hype already if you expect others to change.

Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:11 pm
I think Wordslinger is on it… Yes, it has been messed up by both parties. But… BUT… The Governor may say it’s worse than I thought after the election. It was really bad anyway. The 6th level of hell is what he ran for the big seat. So he got the 7th level… So what? You knew it was bad and YOUR budget is bad too… They will go all summer and taxes will be raised but, cuts will be made and stuck to…this time.

Comment by Walter Mitty Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:11 pm
Louis, who do you think among the general public cares whether the legislature is in session past Memorial Day?

School’s out, summer’s starting — who cares?

It’s a strange leap of faith to think that there will be public pressure for them to finish work before May?

Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:15 pm
NOPE
Look BVR had 2 votes rented before he even introduced the legislation. There should be a line outside 207 Wednesday with the next wave. Should be very orderly and done by end of May

Comment by Anonin' Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:16 pm
The tough choices (for all sides) will make for a long session.

Comment by anon. Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:18 pm
I voted yes partly because I think the ISC will throw out pension reform without giving any signals as to what might pass muster. That will set us back a couple of years, not months because there is no plan B that I’m aware of.

But, what if, and it’s a huge if, but what if the supremes ok the pension legislation? The Speaker said he had 4 votes, right? Then watch everyone tripping over each other trying to spend the “savings”.

Comment by Casual Observer Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:18 pm
This Governor (so far) is acting more as a CEO than a Governor. I think he’s in for an education when it comes to governing specifically in dealing with the legislative leaders. It’s not a one way street.

Comment by Stones Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:24 pm
No, it’s done, the rest is pure theater they are lining up the roll call as we speak.

Comment by Rastafarian Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:41 pm
I voted “NO” because…well, I want a life this summer, and can’t bear the thought of overtime.

Comment by anon Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:49 pm
legislative overtime costs money. Delayed payments cost money. Delayed Budget allocations cost money and lead to inefficencies all across state government, and in Universities and K-12 Education. Rauner may not like any of this.

Comment by Makandadawg Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 2:56 pm
“No, it’s done, the rest is pure theater they are lining up the roll call as we speak.”

What world are you living in? I know it’s easy ala Arizona Bob to believe that nobody in the legislature gives a damn about their constituents and no one has principled reasons for voting the way they do, and that everyone just sits back and collects a check and that no one cares about the very real pain that folks will feel with cuts that do real damage. I know. All politicians are lazy liars and cynical and thieves. I get it. If this is all all theater and nothing more God help this state. I hope it goes into overtime. I hope legislators fight. I hope that legislators get that dollars in the budget affect real lives.I hope that those fights mean real progress. That’s what democracy is. It’s messy. Doesn’t come wrapped in a nice little bow. And it’s not supposed to. The legislature has all kinds of people from all parts of the state who come to this with different opinions and local needs. There are regional differences and cultural differences in addition to party and ideological differences, some of those ideological differences exist within the same party! That diversity is real. Get ready for a long summer.

Comment by sideline watcher Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:04 pm
The session will go on into July and Governor Rauner might resurrect his sales tax proposal as outlined in his “Bring Back Blueprint” in order to not shut down the state. As Rich pointed out last year that proposal does not replace revenue lost from the income tax cut.

But it would provide some revenue to take some of the cuts off the table. At that point somebody will have to blink and possibly implement something that looks like the Civic Federation proposal that includes cuts in growth for human services, education, prisons, etc. To be honest that is my hopeful perspective, I don’t even want to write about my less than hopeful view of the session, its really too depressing.

Comment by Rod Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:10 pm
I’ve worked for the state many years when the budget was not passed by June 30. One of those years, I was slated for lay off July 1. So, going into summer or even fall w/ Oct 1 for the FFY is par for the course. No different w/ Rauner.

Comment by Emily Booth Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:31 pm
Sorry for the delay in responding Word. There will be a ton of drama queen headlines by Memorial Day if no agreement is reached. None of those articles or newscasts will present much in the way of nuanced analysis about this year’s failed budget or next fiscal year. All the public will hear is how stupid and incompetent Springfield government is. I see no other narrative if they come up short. Rauner, Madigan, Durkin, Cullerton and Radogno are far too smart and worked too hard to get to their current positions to let that happen and sully their reputations. I expect both parties to feel pain under these circumstances.

Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:48 pm
“An odd twist to all of this is if Rauner is really just floating trial balloons to get where he really wants to be. Thats a common tactic in the private sector”

…and a common mistake in politics. I’m gonna hit this one again ’cause for some reason it’s stuck in my craw, but you simply DON’T propose things you don’t want/can’t defend. Look, Rauner made a big speech right in the Capitol telling us how important those cuts were. He. Owns. Them. And if that’s NOT what the final budget includes, then Bennett and Forby and any other Dem up in ‘16 gets to say, “That madman Bruce Rauner wanted to cut money for kids on ventilators, but I STOPPED HIM.”

To the post: I’m voting yes, because the people who determine OT- the majority caucuses- don’t have any real incentive to avoid OT. Madigan and Cullerton both want revenue. Madigan wants Republicans votes for revenue. Cullerton wants to hobble the new Guv right out of the gate.

Comment by Arsenal Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:50 pm
Make sure they turn off the AC this summer. Taxpayers want to see them sweat.

Comment by Toure's Latte Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 3:52 pm
== Am I the only one who sees no difference between this administration and the others in the recent past. ==

If you go back a year or so, I think I might have been the first to describe Rauner as the GOP’s version of Blago.

Comment by RNUG Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 4:19 pm
===I think I might have been the first to describe Rauner as the GOP’s version of Blago.===

Indeed, you may have, but I know I had to agree with you then too…lol

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 4:22 pm
Thompson and Edgar kicked the can down the road, albeit with more grace.

Comment by Juvenal Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 4:39 pm
Louis. I think you wildly overestimate the general public’s interest in Springfield sausage-making.

Everyone just got a tax cut, right? All good, for now.

Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 4:42 pm
Word, if the general public doesn’t care about the sausage making as you claim, then all the complaints being heard right now about slashing various budgets and services are meaningless and are to be discounted?

If they won’t care by Memorial Day, then I guess they don’t care now, using your logic.

Comment by Louis G Atsaves Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 5:23 pm
The only thing I do know is if they go to Overtime, which is what I am guessing, each and every cut will be highlighted with a brighter light, every day there isn’t a deal.

People are waking up to these cuts now. They really will be paying attention to the “green lights” and “who” stands where… Even Mrs. Rauner.

Comment by Oswego Willy Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 5:49 pm
Louis, you’re mixed up. People love sausage, they don’t want to see how it gets to the table.

Your original contention was that there would be public pressure for the GA to adjourn by May 31. Why you think the public cares about when the GA adjourns is beyond me.

Comment by Wordslinger Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 6:00 pm
Apparently I’m an optimist, but whatever budget agreement is needed is going to need votes from both sides, and if they need super-majority to pass, that is even more people that have to vote for it. I think the Leaders will all want to avoid having to put more votes on that bill as possible. I bet the entire budget is done in one approp, and one BIMP too, not a package.

Comment by Just Me Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 6:17 pm
“If Rauner can get an agreement without a shutdown and with a temporary tax re-hike, this will not be an issue in his re-election…Four years is a long time, and they were already paying it. Better for Rauner to raise agin it now then lower it later if he can.”
The Jim Edgar playbook…

Comment by Vote Quimby! Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 7:03 pm
Willy is right. Rauner is too arrogant to compromise, and the unpopularity of these cuts will favor Dems.Why would Madigan and Cullerton cave to Rauner when the public is on their side? Maybe the Dems, if they are smart, will even allow votes on Rauner’s proposed cuts.

Comment by Truthteller Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 7:09 pm
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-rahm-emanuel-bruce-rauner-20140829-story.html#page=1

Royalty bow before your lords Illinois!

Comment by Monarchy Monday Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 7:53 pm
No cuz us farmers gotta get in them pickup trucks back home.

Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 8:28 pm
The Democrats would be wise to let the Republicans carry the lead on the budget. When that coalesces, then tweak it, but don’t let it get to overtime so some Ds can bail on it, if needed. Let it all be Rauner and the Republicans and some Ds.

Comment by Anonymous Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 8:57 pm
I voted “No” because I think they will be so far from agreement on anything they will recess with the idea of coming back when the leadership has something. So, I agree they won’t finish by May 31, I just think it won’t be continuous.

Gee, with fund sweeps and overtimes, you would think Blago was back…

Comment by Harry Monday, Feb 23, 15 @ 10:02 pm
Word, the confusion is on your end. The drama queen news articles will kick in after the failure, not before. I see the pressure as avoiding bad headlines after the failure and blame avoidance. Not before.

Comment by Louis G. Atsaves Tuesday, Feb 24, 15 @ 7:31 am
- Louis G. Atsaves -,

===The drama queen news articles will kick in after the failure, not before.===

I guess Ounce for Prevention won’t be rallying the last days before as Mrs. Rauner’s husband slashes social services…

Yeah, um, ok.

Comment by Oswego Willy Tuesday, Feb 24, 15 @ 9:52 am