SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – While legislators continued their summer recess, new developments emerged concerning the state budget this week, which legislative leaders - including Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson - have been working on since session's end.

On Tuesday, June 24 Governor Rod Blagojevich said he would dramatically cut the state budget unless the Illinois House approved several revenue sources to offset a nearly $2 billion gap between state spending and revenues. A deadline was given for the House to act by July 9, the date the state will not have the revenue to pay certain bills. State Comptroller Dan Hynes reaffirmed the time crunch, sending a letter on June 26 to state officials cautioning that failure to approve a budget by July 10 could result in missed paychecks for state employees.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – While the summer break continues for the Illinois General Assembly, a lot of work is still being done while not in session. Budget talks are still underway, two senators kicked off their tour of Illinois’ correctional facilities and several new laws will go into effect beginning July 1.

State budget negotiations do continue between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and legislative leaders, including Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson. Lawmakers are attempting to close a $2 billion gap in proposed state spending and projected revenues. A meeting schedule this week was canceled because of the flooding crisis in central Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois General Assembly continued its summer break this week, having ended the spring session May 31. However, work still continues on the state’s budget.

On Wednesday, June 11, Gov. Rod Blagojevich and legislative leaders from three of the four caucuses – including Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson – met to discuss the state budget passed at the end of May. The leaders also continue to work with the Governor to negotiate a capital program to address the state’s growing infrastructure needs in areas such as roads and schools.

Springfield, Ill. - Neither the Senate nor the House were in session this week, having initially concluded the spring session on May 31. However, legislative work may not be complete.

Three of the four top legislative leaders including Senate Republican Leader Frank Watson met with Governor Blagojevich May 5 in Chicago to continue discussions on a new state budget and a capital construction program for roads, bridges, schools and other public facilities. Little progress was made during the meeting however, additional talks are expected in the coming week.