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* 6:46 pm - The House is now debating the income tax bill.
The House attached an amendment that eliminates the property tax rebate program. The provision had encountered resistance from this who represent more affluent areas and those who wanted to use the money to close the state deficit.
* As of about a half hour ago, the HDem poll had this at 57 hard yes votes. Fun stuff.
* 7:32 pm - Five more members are requesting time to speak as of now.
* Like the Senate, the House also plans to change its rules to require a three fifths vote to move any bill from 2nd to 3rd Reading which amends the expenditure cap.
* One more speaker before the vote.
* 60-57. The bill passes.. It now goes to the Senate.
* Democrats voting No: Crespo, D’Amico, Farnham, Franks, J Gordon, Mell, McAsey, Osterman, Phelps, Sente. No Republicans voted for it.
* The bill reached 62 votes on the big board at one point, then fell back to 60. Here’s the video of the vote…
D’Amico switched at the last second. See anyone else?
…Adding… The other was Republican Rep. Ron Stephens. This is an old, battle-tested floor trick. Put up a phantom “Yes” vote and hope nobody notices, then pull it off at the last possible second before the other side can replace it. Didn’t work.
* 8:47 pm - The governor’s $14 billion bond plan to pay off past due debt came up short. No Republicans would support it.
posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 6:47 pm
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Previous Post: Part of the deal blows up
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da***d if we do, da***d if we don’t
Comment by anon Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 6:52 pm
This could be a long night
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 6:52 pm
Rep. Eddy,
You haven’t “mismanaged” for 8 years you’ve mismanaged for 30 years. 22 of those years you had a repub governor.
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 6:57 pm
Nice! No help for the ‘less’ affluent in this deal. Well, that’s okay. The working bloke can’t move…no money for the u-haul! Way to go, House!
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 6:58 pm
Is it because the votes were found or because they will never be there?
Comment by crcostel Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:04 pm
It was a bad idea anyway, from both policy and administrative points of view.
Comment by Excessively Rabid Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:10 pm
Where can we get live coverege of this on radio, tv, web, blog, or what have you. This blog seems to be as real-time as I can find.
Comment by Mark Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:12 pm
Mark,
You can get the video feed on the Illinois General Assembly website. The video feed isn’t great though.
JP
Comment by John Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:13 pm
It is streaming on ilga.gov
Comment by Montrose Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:13 pm
Go to the GA website, ilga.gov
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:13 pm
“The House attached an amendment that eliminates the property tax rebate program.”
Well, I got that prediction right. Waiting for the rest.
Comment by Wensicia Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:19 pm
I have yet to hear a good reason by the Dems why we need such a massive tax increase. They should be ashamed of themselves.
The state republicans are mainly a bunch of do nothing idiots, but their actually making some sense tonight. This is not a balanced approach, this is all on the backs of the taxpayers.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:24 pm
We’ve been waiting for this for years and now here we are. This will squeak by barely in the House
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:26 pm
The problem with Franks’ idea for line by line cuts is we don’t have until the end of the FY to do so. Need revenue now.
Comment by JL Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:35 pm
The wealthy (those making over, say, $250,000 a year to use the threshold the feds were using re the Bush tax cut repeal), can afford a personal income tax increase.
The middle class cannot, for a variety of reasons,
which have been discussed in depth here and in
many other venues. Recession. Globalization. Increased job insecurity due to globalization. Steep decline in defined benefit pensions in the private sector. Increased costs for food, gas, and for medical care. Stagnant wages. Steep drops in housing value. Homes that won’t sell so their owners can’t move.
The President gets it. Illinois Democrats do not.
Comment by cassandra Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:36 pm
You haven’t “mismanaged” for 8 years you’ve mismanaged for 30 years. 22 of those years you had a repub governor.
Bill: I’m confused. I remember the General Assembly debating a rainy day fund near the end of Edgar’s last term (probably 1997-1998), with about $1 billion surplus.
Therefore, we’ve only had 12 years of bad budgets. All of those budgets were passed by Democrat majorities in the House, and 8 of 12 years were Democrat Governors and Senate majorities.
Comment by Madison County Watcher Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:37 pm
As a renter, I was wondering if the property tax rebate would work like those commercials where you get a picture of the child you are sponsoring. Would I get a specific family to send my money to for their property tax rebate? Would I get pictures and letters from them telling me how grateful they are for my help?
All kidding aside, we do need property tax reform in this state, but it just needs to be more equitable for all involved.
Comment by Katiedid Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:37 pm
Is “U-Haul” the word for the evening’s drinking game?
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:39 pm
The state was ok in 2000 and 01, but 9/11 happened and the state collapsed
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:39 pm
Words, you seem really tense. Lighten up, son. It’s just money.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:41 pm
MCW,
Its pretty simple. Instaed of raising taxes appropriately and gradually to pay for increased spending Jim Thompson and Jim Edgar, in collusion with Madigan, continually took money which should have gone into pension funds and spent it. The pension holidays continued regularly and in 1995 Little Jim kicked the can way down the road with a ramp scheme that would allow the state to short pensions until Edgar was safely out of office and then explode around 2009. The time bomb has gone off and that, along with the recession, led to the problems we are now having. Taxes should have been gradually been increased throughout the last 25 years as expenditures increased instead of remaining artificially low. But noooooooooooooo
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:48 pm
IS anyone else having problems with the live audio feed? I am being told “server not available”
Comment by Living In Oklahoma Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:49 pm
Yup same thing. Rich what does the 2/3 vote for 2nd to 3rd reading effect again?
Comment by oh Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:51 pm
Same here. I had to turn on the audio feed and that is working ok for now that is.
Comment by John Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:51 pm
What do you care, Will? You live in OK. What kind of income taxes are you paying down there?
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:52 pm
Bill, and truth be told, this isn’t going to make any real dent in the unfunded pension problem. We’re still screwed. But by golly, at least we’re doing SOMETHING. Bet IL’s bond rating is still pretty stinky after this.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:52 pm
Bill lets not compare OK to Illinois.
Comment by oh Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:53 pm
It is something we must do, if we don’t we will be even more screwed and much worse in the future
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:54 pm
I think this is fascinating stuff to many in nearby states. Kinda like the macabre rubbernecking when driving by a really nasty car wreck. I mean, come on, this is high drama. We are THE #1 dysfunctional state in the nation.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:55 pm
== The state was ok in 2000 and 01, but 9/11 happened and the state collapsed ==
If at this point everyone wants to blame external factors for the situation we are in so they can rationalize the cluster that this states finances are thats fine…
But overall this states financial issues are not exactly a huge news flash. The years, yes years we put off paying bills so they would be covered in the next FY are not something that someone came up with the last couple of years.
When it would have been easier to get in front of this, our government chose not to. Because it would have ticked off voters, so instead we got Rod’s stupid budget tricks
“Hey lets realize the 20+ years of savings right now!” Treating future revenue like current revenue is what got Enron in trouble, at this state did it, why? Because it was easy.
So blame Rod, Democrats, Republicans, the economy, Jim Edgar and Dan Walker, AFSCME or Red China whatever.
But at the end of the day we are quickly reaching the point where we will be paying a fortune in interest on the new and old debt we have taken out to keep the state running and any rational company with the option will not do business with the state since good cash flow management does not involve waiting 8 months for payment.
At this point I can really care less who caused the problem, I just want some folks to man up and start to deal with it, without just thinking of their own self interest in keeping their seat in the chamber and their office across the way.
Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:55 pm
David Miller is fired up! Good man.
Comment by Cheswick Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:56 pm
@Cassandra, Why do so many feel that a $250K be defining-point as being wealthy? Why not $10k, or a million? It’s just a bit too subjective on the government’s part in my opinion.
Although I make nowhere near that amount,
that amount of income is substantial, I agree, but it should not be a bearing point at which the government can mandate to those making that hard-earned $$$ to hand it over any more so than any other working american.
Comment by too tired to watch anymore Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:56 pm
who was that last speaker? Was he crazy or just not realize his mike was on?
Comment by ahoy Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:56 pm
is Rep. Miller doing a bad Rep. Black impersonation?
Comment by drew Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:57 pm
“Everybody wants to go to heaven but nobody wants to die” David Miller
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:57 pm
I don’t think it will make a whit of dif, Pub. Between folks doing what they can to avoid the tax, businesses fleeing or avoiding IL, it’ll probably be a wash.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:57 pm
Too Tired- Those making $250k+ a year are in the 99th percentile of income, which is a pretty good way to tell when someone is wealthy
Comment by Emanuel Collective Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:58 pm
Rep. Miller: Everyone wants to get to heaven, but no one wants to die! That’s precious! I’ve never heard that before.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 7:58 pm
I wish Bill Black was still in the chamber. I want to hear his opinion on the matter. Somebody call him up and put him on speaker phone
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:00 pm
Are any of the 57 hard votes Repub? Do we know which Dems are not a “yes” vote yet?
Comment by Eagle Eye Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:03 pm
Shouldn’t Rep Miller hbave credited Peter Tosh for that quote. Equal Rights and Justice. Just saying everybody was up in Nolands grill for pinching a speech.
Comment by not on the clout list Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:07 pm
Passed!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:08 pm
and it passes.
Comment by oh Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:08 pm
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:08 pm
Passed at its limit.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:09 pm
God help the state
Comment by crcostel Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:09 pm
Were in trouble….
Comment by John Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:10 pm
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Comment by Green Line Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:10 pm
I’m lucky to have a dentist who treated me even though he didn’t get paid. Now I hope he gets paid.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:12 pm
It will hurt to have that tax taken out of my paycheck, but I think it is responsible for us to pay for the services we have received.
I hope that the Republicans will produce the cuts they have been hiding all these years. Then the tax increase can be rescinded early.
Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:12 pm
Well, there’s your 2012 election issue. Thanks, Dems! Beautiful work!
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:13 pm
Dem’s are going to pay dearly. There is no map that will make them safe come election time.
Comment by ahoy Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:13 pm
That Madigan sure knows how count. Well done.
Comment by Montrose Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:14 pm
Yes, thank you Mr. Speaker for allowing us to get into this mess and have the taxpayers bail you out so you can start the same mismanagement over again.
Even if you favor this tax increase, I am astonished that behavior like this would elicit a “YEEEESSSS!!!” For shame.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:14 pm
People saying the Dems doomed themselves to defeat for passing this bill assume there would’ve been no problems for the State had no income tax increase passed.
Comment by Emanuel Collective Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:15 pm
Any suburban or downstate Democrat should get their resumes ready.
Comment by crcostel Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:16 pm
Not so, Eman. Really, the only thing that will help this state is collapse and restructure. It’s still going to happen. The Dems now get the blame. MAy not be fair, but there it is.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:18 pm
How does this fix the structural deficit? I don’t think it does.
Comment by @all Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:20 pm
Even my years in Texas did not prepare me for this kind of drama. The freak show in Austin only happens every *other* year.
Needed to be done, folks. Hope it will have been enough, and/or that the next lege has the guts to do some of the mopping up behind this crew.
Thanks, Rich, for opening the window for us.
Comment by Ray del Camino Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:21 pm
Well, you can’t blame the GOP leadership for passage.
Over the last few days, they were tireless in their efforts to drum up support for its defeat — on every TV news show, all the radio talk programs, edit boards, hosting rallies all across the state, firing up the base, 24/7, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Oh wait. They did nothing. Cross, Radogno and titular leader Brady were all on the milk carton. Maybe they were working undercover on that forensic audit.
They’re as relieved as anyone that it passed. They just didn’t want to have their fingerprints on it.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:23 pm
Ray, there is no math in the world that makes this ‘enough’. We’re still screwed. They just get a little more of our $$ for the rest of the ride down.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:23 pm
There’s the problem of corporations/people now wanting to leave the state versus businesses that were on the brink of collapse from not getting paid.
Robbing Peter to pay Paul?
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:25 pm
Bingo, Werds. And you know how people are. All they are going to remember is Quinn’s lying and the Dem’s looting. Repubs just had to lay back and watch the show. Same thing that happened to the Dems on a national level, once Obama took office and they had total power. We know how that ended.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:26 pm
I assume this means it’s a done deal.
It was a fair fight.
I think we should pass a law saying you don’t get to complain about the tax increase 1) if you voted for Quinn (he was very clear that he would raise taxes) 2) if you didn’t e-mail, write or call your senator and rep expressing your opposition to the tax and 3) ditto Quinn’s office. If you didn’t do all those things, you
should, well, suck it up.
I did all those things, so I will keep complaining. Question #1-Will anticipation of all these new billions result in blowout taxpayer-funded Democratic parties this weekend.
Where can I contribute to Rutherford for Guv.
Comment by cassandra Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:27 pm
Too bad there is no GOP leadership in this state. This would be a good issue to exploit. But Dems know they have nothing to worry about. Rs never had a plan of their own. Sad.
Comment by just sayin' Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:28 pm
Cassandra, How will be able to afford a political contribution now that the state income tax has been raised!?!?
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:31 pm
D’Amico and Mell voted no. Their families have been amassing wealth in no small part due to public revenue. At holidays, they exchange gifts with family members who get paid with tax money. They benefit from the machine “political volunteer spirit” of those whose salaries derive from tax money.
And they couldn’t be bothered to vote for more tax money? That’s just rude. Politically smart, definitely cowardly, but still rude nonetheless.
D’Amico and Mell are now fiscal conservatives, eh? Wow, nice way to treat your colleagues. Good luck getting any future bills passed. Oh wait, I forgot. That doesn’t matter to you two.
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:32 pm
At the end of the day, who’s the Man?
Comment by steve schnorf Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:36 pm
Just, out of these sorts of times/events, leadership is often born. Time’ll tell, son. Time’ll tell.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:37 pm
47th Ward,
I have perhaps an amusing story for you. In late 2009, Rep. Mell came to my state worksite to see severe understaffing. She said that she voted against the income tax increase because that’s what her constituents wanted, or it would hurt her constituents.
Her staffer or Rep. Mell told us a story of an elderly man who was against the income tax increase but was irate that his food stamp application was not processed in a timely manner.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:39 pm
My understanding is that even with this bill passing there will have to be at least $800 million in cuts in FY 2012. For those who want cuts believe me they are a coming.
Comment by Rod Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:39 pm
Stephens was the other one that switched from yes to no. Correcting a mistake?
Comment by 60611 Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:39 pm
More money for the same Democratic Party that got us into this mess. It’s a sad day for Illinois.
Comment by Waco Kid Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:40 pm
Stephens changed at the last minute also
Comment by MJ Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:41 pm
So has the governor said he would sign this in it’s current form?
Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:41 pm
Did any legislature ever do as much to tackle tough issues in such a short time as this one this month? I happen to feel that almost all of it was good, and that it took a very rare combination of skill and courage. I am actually proud to be from Illinois at this moment.
Comment by jake Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:43 pm
–So has the governor said he would sign this in it’s current form?–
LOL, I’m not a betting man, but….
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:44 pm
Taken out of context, a small step that will leave considerable fiscal challenges ahead. In the context of what we have seen out of Springfield for years, it’s an amazing act of courage. Combined it with the abolition of the death penalty, and today is the most sane day in the capitol this century.
Comment by Boone Logan Square Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:45 pm
It has to pass the Senate first. Stermer said Quinn supports it. If they don’t pass the bonding authority it will still take years to dig out of the hole.
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:45 pm
Jake-
I’m ashamed for so many reasons.
Comment by crcostel Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:45 pm
47th Ward, Mell voted no because of Rod.
Comment by Jo Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:46 pm
== I happen to feel that almost all of it was good, and that it took a very rare combination of skill and courage. I am actually proud to be from Illinois at this moment. ==
courage would have been to do this a year ago, or even before November. This wasn’t courage.
Comment by OneMan Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:47 pm
C’mon Republicans grow a backbone and do the right thing for a change.
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:48 pm
This should have happened two years ago in the wake of Blago’s impeachment, but Madigan would not call a vote without Republican support.
I say thanks to all with the courage to vote yes and let’s hope things improve for everyone in our state.
All you jokers talking about moving- see you later.
Comment by DuPage Dave Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:48 pm
I don’t remember which Republican brought up the family of four making $40,000 per year, but at this income level–and I don’t have the income standards with me–this family would qualify for the Share or Premium medical program via DHS. That would help this family tremendously if no member had private health insurance. Now if this family is forced to take public health insurance because its employer can not afford to help out in this age of private-sector cuts, this is an economic benefit to the family, possibly the employer and the medical providers, but perhaps not to the taxpayers. I sincerely hope that you have private health insurance and don’t have to resort to getting help, but if you don’t have insurance, have a family and someone gets unaffordably sick, would you not seek help in any way you can?
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:50 pm
Bonds failed with 68 votes. Figures.
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:50 pm
Anybody have storage boxes… Gonna need them for the U-haul…
Comment by Dave Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:53 pm
I expect that Mell, Sente, and a couple of others in tough districts voted no because the Speaker told them he had the votes without them. He is always thinking of both the long term and the immediate problem simultaneously. The immediate problem was getting this through so the state would not go bankrupt. The long term is to preserve his majority indefinitely, so he is not going to press caucus members in districts where they are getting a lot of blowback if he does not need the votes.
Comment by jake Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:54 pm
–Gonna need them for the U-haul…–
There’s the magic word — take a drink!
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:55 pm
They better find those 3 votes for the bonds or this whole thing still sucks.
Comment by Demoralized Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:57 pm
Could the bonding be passed with a majority vote by the new legislature, or would it still take 3/5s?
Comment by James Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:58 pm
Since when has Deb Mell been in a tough district?
Comment by 47th Ward Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:58 pm
It always needs 3/5.
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 8:59 pm
Words, I am worried about you. Lay off the booze!
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:01 pm
Mell won 2 to 1 in the primary and was unopposed in the general. I don’t think “tough district” explains the vote.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:01 pm
Congrat’s to the Blago faction. One more victory!
Comment by park Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:01 pm
uhaul, uhaul, uhaul
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:02 pm
wifi on cta- postponed consideration
Comment by Bill Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:03 pm
Thattaboy Bill — keep ‘em coming!
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:03 pm
LOL I’ll get a bigger tax refund from the state.
Comment by Emily Booth Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:07 pm
The House is adjourned for the 96th General Assembly. Now onto the Senate and then the 97th General Assembly
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:07 pm
I just heard on the news that this revenue will also go toward paying former Gov. Edgar’s $1.1 million dollar pension.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:08 pm
Representative Jay Franks (D) delivered a terrific speech. Raising taxes to continue spending and maintaining the status quo. Irresponsible boards and commissions with lavishly paid part-timers will continue to function.
More business as usual. Illinois did not salvage itself today, it merely delayed its inevitable execution. Since capital punishment may soon be abolished, perhaps suicide is the better term.
Comment by Honest Abe Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:10 pm
Heh..silly. Do it the right way! No uhaul. Get the gov’t to underwrite your move. Use a real moving company. Lose a job, they might pay, under certain circs. I have to say, IA looks good. Wholesome. Just gotta unload the hovel. Or do jinglemail, I guess. Yeah…this progressive mindset is very relaxing. Easy. Let others care for you.
Comment by Hurrah! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:11 pm
Now would be a good time to emphasize HB2514
Comment by NeveroddoreveN Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:14 pm
Wordslinger - your post on the Republican’s lack of effort on this thing is right on. Despite the vote tallies, the Republican’s grubby paws are all over this.
Vote all of these failures out. The State has been mismanaged for so long that every single one of these “representatives” need to go.
Comment by DuPage Moderate Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:15 pm
Nice vote by D’Amico when he is double-dipping as a rep and on a municipal payroll. All of his and his cousin the alderman’s relatives on a payroll should get laid off.
Comment by jim Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:17 pm
Rich, When is the Senate expected to take the income tax up?
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:17 pm
“Right on”
It’s the Republicans fault that the Democrats tax and spend like crazy.
Comment by JP Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:18 pm
This bill was one of the most painful votes since TARP. TARP saved the world’s banking system and, btw, has virtually been repaid.
I’m proud of the house dems and for all you repubs, play a part in this and tell us where YOU think you can make a billion or so in cuts instead of your favorite term “NO”. If your plan is to cut cops, teachers, healthcare for low income seniors then say so.
Other troubled states will be watching this very closely. Good luck to all our Illinois citizens.
This tax increase was not an option.
Comment by MJ60035 Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:20 pm
Yes, it’s the Republicans fault that they have shown no leadership and have allowed and abetted in this spending orgy.
Comment by DuPage Moderate Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:28 pm
47th, I’ve never used them, but I recommend Reebie movers because they have that funky, bug-eyed King Tut logo and an interesting building on Clark near Belden.
Still, I have a soft spot for U-Haul (drink) ever since they started painting state scenes and Fun Facts on the sides of their trucks. The gas station on my way to the El has a lot full of them and I learn something new every day.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:34 pm
Are we a screwed up state or what? Dysfunctional, backward, knee-jerk, corrupt, arrogant are just a few words that come to mind. I don’t have a dog in the hunt since I’m retired (pension not taxable in IL) so this is an outsider observation.
Comment by Soccertease Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:36 pm
This, or something like it, needed to be done.
My Rs have probably done a smart thing politically, but I’m having a hard time feeling good about it.
There’s really no need to forecast good or bad outcomes. All we have to do is wait and watch. As usual, there’s an election coming up in less than 24 months.
Good luck to Cullerton and the Senate on this. He’s gotten the job done before, and I suspect he will this time too.
Comment by steve schnorf Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:37 pm
New state motto
Illinois - the state of disaster
Comment by DRB Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:38 pm
I don’t recall hearing about any Republicans who are eating from the public trough volunteer to self-audit and pay back anything above what they contributed.
Comment by Grandson of Man Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:39 pm
The Dems did what had to be done, at long, long last. The Republicans look even more hypocritical than usual, and that is going some. Secretly, they will be very relieved to see the new revenue.
Comment by Skirmisher Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:42 pm
Finally! Responsible government. Good on Governor Quinn and the Democratic leaders. We are going to be a real state again! Three cheers for the Union! Three cheers for Abe Lincoln! Three cheers for the great state of Illinois!
I now return you to your usual grumpings…
Comment by FDR! Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:45 pm
I blame the Republicans more. This is what happens they keep incompetent leadership.
Comment by just sayin' Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:49 pm
Bill,
FYI, we wouldn’t be in this terrible position with a massive tax hike (w/billions in unpaid bills and after hitting local govt’s with new fees/taxes) in the worst economy since the great depression, if your former boss listened to Gov Ryan and accepted that advice and assistance in the transition.
Comment by schnorf fan Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:49 pm
It’s good to finally see leadership and action from some of our state elected officials. I expect there will be more cuts in government programs and services, but at least we’re beginning to address our state budgetary problems in a more comprehensive manner.
Comment by Going nuclear Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:54 pm
When is the Senate taking it up Rich?
Comment by UISer Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:54 pm
And Bill, I’ll take my two guys over your guy any day, and twice on Sundays. They both cared about governing the State. Quinn seems to care also. I still can’t understand Rod twice.
Comment by steve schnorf Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:54 pm
Without the bonding, there’s still a big hole to fill. Maybe we’ll see that contents of Cross’ four-page action plan he was waving at NYT yet.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 9:59 pm
why was the tax vote not verified.
Comment by Anon 1 Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:00 pm
–why was the tax vote not verified.–
You can probably answer that yourself.
Comment by wordslinger Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:04 pm
Everybody was in their seats!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:05 pm
Cross is a failure. What a sham. Leadership……ha!
So when are we going to tackle the pension/spending reform now that we’ve looted the taxpayers with a lame duck legislature?
Comment by DuPage Moderate Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:06 pm
I’ll be so excited when the Republican’s share their plan. The detailed cuts of waste fraud and abuse (that seem to make up a quarter of state general revenue spending) will surely be enough to allow the tax increase to be rescinded. I’ll bet Cross is holding back so he can make Madigan look foolish for passing the unneeded tax increase. Maybe Radongo will share the plan with the Senate tonight! Stay tuned!
Comment by Pot calling kettle Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:09 pm
So when is the Senate going to meet tonight?
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:12 pm
You guys bashing Cross…didn’t you see he had a plan? You know, sell state cars…end out-of-state travel. That’s worth, what, $12 billion, right?
Comment by Bill F. Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:17 pm
So sad, Illinois could be grabbing jobs and advancing the recovery (recall Mitch Daniels also raised taxes/fees early on in his first term) if we planned ahead like Gov Ryan did (as much as you might want to hate him). Now we pay more, will not attract new business, and (w/Chicago’s problems) all but ensure Illinois is close to the LAST place you want to do business and try to create new opportunities and jobs. Thanks Bill, thanks Gov B.
Comment by schnorf fan Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 10:52 pm
Not to commit a foul by dropping some facts into this discussion, but I would suggest that folks take a look at State income tax rates across the nation before crying foul in Illinois…
http://www.taxfoundation.org/files/state_individualincome_rates-20100327.pdf
I am particularly amused by Wisconsin’s Governor chirping about this vote. The Governor of Indiana may have a point, however, I am really doubting that firms are itching to move to Fort Wayne in order to avoid this increase.
To those looking to move South Dakota has no state income tax. South Dakota does need people. There are no jobs there, but hey, the rates can’t get any lower.
Comment by benniefly2 Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:00 pm
The Dems spent us to the brink of bankruptcy, pointed the finger at Republicans and then raised taxes on all the people of Illinois without cutting a nickel of spending and they are worshipped on this site as some sort of noble statesmen.
I’m scratching my head and I need a drink. UHAUL.
Comment by Old Milwaukee Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:04 pm
looks like something’s getting started on the senate video feed.
Comment by Nate Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:07 pm
So the House finally acts and then the Senate decides they don’t like it so now they won’t act? Great, this state is messed up
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:07 pm
The Senate is back
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:17 pm
I am not sure what all the excitement is about here–after all, Quinn will veto the increase. I mean, he said so during the campaign and would certainly never lie about something so important. That would be wrong.
Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:22 pm
Have there been any significant spending reduction plans implemented during the veto session? Heard about pension reform, but nothing on spending cuts.
Been traveling & out of the loop past few weeks. Thanks!
Comment by BackinTown Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:29 pm
If I’d taken a drink for every bogus talking point about “raising taxes on hardworking people in this state,” I would be in need of medical attention by now.
Idiotic McCarter now talking about how retirees are going to have to move away from their grandchildren. Hello Kyle, retirement income is not taxed in IL under this bill or any other. Sheesh.
Comment by A Naughty Moose Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:37 pm
The negative comments about Mell and D’Amico are truly deserved. They did not earn their jobs, they got them out of political patronage, they are not bright legislators, and now they don’t even have the guts to be courageous legislators and take one for the team to do their small part to get our state out of this mess. It is a culture of entitlement. Dishonorable. Disgusting.
**D’Amico and Mell voted no. Their families have been amassing wealth in no small part due to public revenue. At holidays, they exchange gifts with family members who get paid with tax money. They benefit from the machine “political volunteer spirit” of those whose salaries derive from tax money.
And they couldn’t be bothered to vote for more tax money? That’s just rude. Politically smart, definitely cowardly, but still rude nonetheless. D’Amico and Mell are now fiscal conservatives, eh? Wow, nice way to treat your colleagues. Good luck getting any future bills passed. Oh wait, I forgot. That doesn’t matter to you two.**
Comment by tired of press Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:39 pm
“People will not forget this bill.” Sorry Senator by next week people will be focused on something else like Health Care or why is it snowing(like they’ve never seen snow before)?
Comment by Publius Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:43 pm
Cullerton is doing well so far. Countering the blather by McCarter and dismissing Duffy’s fulminations about how every small business will flee the state.
Comment by Just the Facts Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:47 pm
They passed a huge “Medicaid Reform” bill that cuts about $800 million or so out of medical programs…
Comment by Jo Tuesday, Jan 11, 11 @ 11:58 pm
Also - the GRF budget is down about 3 billion since 2009. I don’t know how you say they haven’t cut a nickel….
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:01 am
Sen. Murphy, how do you explain the $3billion less in the GRF?
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:04 am
When is jason plummer going stop talking
Comment by piling on Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:11 am
So when do the reform bills start rolling in? Collective bargaining is out of control (especially the binding arbitrators), work comp is a train wreck, prevailing wage rules are development killers, ILRB is stacked, education funding method is antiquated and every agency from IDOT to DCEO to Prisons are infiltrated with political hacks instead of professionals. Not something I’m interested in paying an extra 66% for. Clean up the mess and more people might be somewhat more receptive to paying
Comment by Shemp Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:11 am
So if the Republican argument is correct Rich is going to shut down Cap Fax and move it to Missouri, Iowa or Indiana. I can’t wait to hear about how the Iowa GA passed a law detailing how high your corn must be or what color the barns must be
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:15 am
Burzynski is quoting musicals
Did he vote for civil unions?
Comment by piling on Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:16 am
Did dale just say jim edgars tax hike was bad public policy?
He said all tax increases.
Comment by piling on Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:31 am
Did Sen. Sullivan just say that you can use some of the gaming revenue to lower this tax increase?
So it would be 4.75% instead of 5%. Would you vote for it then?
No, you wouldn’t. I call BS.
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:35 am
Rich, where’d everybody go? Bed time or is et a mad dash for Missouri and 6 percent tax rates
Comment by piling on Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:35 am
Cullerton has an unfair advantage in this discussion. He has reality on his side. Fantasy is great for — well, fantasizing—but you need reality to pay the bills.
Comment by jake Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:39 am
I have 2 proposals to solve the problem. 1)Find a way to claim insurance on the state
2)Keep on not paying and let them turn off the lights
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:42 am
Anyone know what caused Senator Radogno to stop mid sentence?
Comment by BigMac Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:52 am
What’s going on, is someone hurt or what?
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:53 am
I don’t know what is going on - but whomever is President pt said to a hot mic “Who is it?”
And then Radogno said to a hot mic - “That’s going to cost me.”
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:54 am
Last thing the presiding officer said was, “who is it.”
Comment by BigMac Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:55 am
Where is Rich at?
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:56 am
via @dianeswlee on Twitter:
On Senate floor was watching income tax hike debate. A senator just fell to the ground with a loud boom that startled everyone. #Illinois
Comment by Nate Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:56 am
In case this night couldn’t be more dramatic.
Comment by BigMac Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:56 am
Didn’t hear the Radogno comment, but it definitely sounds and appears like a medical emergency
Comment by Norseman Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:58 am
oh no… I would echo the question - who is it? I hope whomever it was is OK.
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:59 am
Has it occurred to anybody else that if these folks were cartoon characters, Madigan would be the Road Runner and succession of Republican leaders he has dealt with would ge Wil E Coyote? The mention of Edgar and the last tax increase brought that to mind, because at that time Madigan was the minority leader, and he was still able to team up with a Republican Governor to do something that most of the Republicans in the legislature did not want. The man just almost always wins, and does so in ways that make the opposition look silly. This is just the latest.
Comment by jake Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:59 am
Reports are that Rep David Miller collapsed on the floor, and medical assistance has been summoned.
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:59 am
Agreed, Jo. Hoping for the best.
Comment by BigMac Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 12:59 am
While they work this out any guess on the final vote count?
Comment by jtz Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:00 am
Oh no! I wrote my last before I read of somebody collapsing. No time for jokes.
Comment by jake Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:00 am
oh no, David.
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:01 am
I hope David is ok, I’ve always liked him and he liked me and wanted me to continue my interest in politics. I can’t make up anything witty now since a friend is sick.
Comment by Publius Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:13 am
I hope Rep, Miller is going to be okay as well. I can also understand however; whatit is may have caused him to collapse.
Comment by Quinn T. Sential Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:18 am
Verification roll call.
Comment by Quinn T. Sential Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:21 am
Senate passed it 30-29. And an immediate motion to reconsider.
that motion is tabled.
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:22 am
Procedural.
Comment by Quinn T. Sential Wednesday, Jan 12, 11 @ 1:29 am