The Latest: Illinois lawmakers pressing toward budget deal
Illinois Republican senators say lawmakers are nearing an agreement on a six-month budget plan and a full-year's funding for public schools.
The tentative plan includes a $485 million increase for elementary and secondary education.
Sen. Pam Althoff — a McHenry Republican — says that's the $235 million that GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner proposed and a $250 million equity grant to help schools with underprivileged low-income students.
Illinois lawmakers and Gov. Bruce Rauner are trying to craft a short-term budget deal to ensure schools open this fall and social service programs are funded while an epic battle over a long-term spending plan continues.
Illinois lawmakers are returning to the state Capitol amid new signs of optimism about a bipartisan deal to keep the state operating without a full budget.