Latest Post | Last 10 Posts | Archives
Previous Post: A look at the state’s elimination of cash bail
Next Post: CDC researchers: Schools can be opened, but limits must be placed on community spread and colleges should revise sports scholarship policies
Posted in:
* Subscribers know more, but here’s the Center Square…
The Illinois House may cancel all but one scheduled session day for February.
When lawmakers do return to Springfield for one day Feb. 10, it could be at the capitol building and could be to adopt House Rules for the new General Assembly.
In an email to members of the Democratic Caucus, House Speaker Chris Welch’s Chief of Staff Jessica Basham said feedback from members of the Democratic caucus “suggests the House should find a balance between remote and in-person work.” […]
“The public health recommendations on quarantine, both before and after a large gathering like session, makes the notion of weekly trips to Springfield impractical, especially for members and staff carrying for young and school-aged children and/or older family members,” Basham wrote in the email.
“Therefore, with the health and safety of members, staff, and the public being the priority, the Speaker plans to cancel the session dates set for February 2-4, 9, 11, and 16-18,” she wrote. “Members should plan to return to Springfield on Wednesday, February 10, 2021, for a 1-day session for one purpose: to adopt House Rules for the 102nd [General Assembly].” […]
Basham said when the House returns Feb. 10, it will be at the Illinois State Capitol building, rather than the Bank of Springfield Center where previous House sessions were conducted to allow for social distancing amid COVID-19 concerns. That cost taxpayers an additional $330,000 in space and equipment rental and catering. […]
The Senate canceled the days it had scheduled for this week. A spokesperson said the next scheduled session date for the Senate is Feb. 9.
It’s unclear how the chambers’ schedules will impact the governor’s combined State of the State/Budget Address set for Feb. 17. That is to be delivered in front of a joint session of the General Assembly.
Still waiting on word about that address.
posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 2:13 pm
Sorry, comments are closed at this time.
Previous Post: A look at the state’s elimination of cash bail
Next Post: CDC researchers: Schools can be opened, but limits must be placed on community spread and colleges should revise sports scholarship policies
WordPress Mobile Edition available at alexking.org.
powered by WordPress.
As has been said…not essential.
Comment by Gilligan Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 2:30 pm
“As has been said…not essential.”
That is until there is a something you or your family needs done like a budget or assistance.
Comment by Give Me A Break Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 2:39 pm
I’m not a subscriber of Rich’s, so this is just speculation on my part.
I’m wondering if the proposed House rules will allow for most of the activity of moving bills to occur remotely via online conferencing. I’m sure there would be logistical issues to work out, and it may not be as efficient as in person, but it should be doable.
Comment by RNUG Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 2:46 pm
Other State legislatures are meeting. Why in the world does everyone think COVID is so much worse here? Springfield restaurants and hotels are dying on the vine. People need to get back to work.
Comment by Webster Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 2:51 pm
So what will become of the Governor’s State of the State and Budget addresses? Traditionally State of the State has usually been last Wednesday of January (which is tomorrow), with Budget address third Wednesday in February. Will those be given in a press conference format if the GA is not going to be in town those days?
Comment by Essential State Employee Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 3:36 pm
What is acceptable about the House basically cancelling all work for a whole month? It’s been close to a year since the pandemic began, by now they should have figured out a way they can work according to their regular schedule.
Comment by Techie Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 4:08 pm
=== Springfield restaurants and hotels are dying on the vine===
All the issues and this is the hill you’re defending?
Comment by Rich Miller Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 4:11 pm
“Springfield restaurants and hotels are dying on the vine.”
“In a recent study, scientists found that adults with positive COVID-19 test results were twice as likely to have reported dining at a restaurant than those with negative COVID-19 test results.” - CDC https://tinyurl.com/y5eme2c3
Get Covid under control, and the Hospitality Industry will revive.
Comment by Steve Polite Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 5:03 pm
I was wondering about that House schedule and why didn’t they synch up with the Governor’s Address. If they are running low on stones, they could have found a way to hit a couple birds.
Comment by SAP Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 5:11 pm
At some point they need to go back. Can’t do another year like last year. Congress is meeting in DC. Legislators all over the country are meeting.
Comment by Frank talks Tuesday, Jan 26, 21 @ 6:23 pm