VIDEO: Illinois Senate sends $2 billion in new spending to governor's desk

3 months, 1 week ago By Benjamin Yount, Illinois Watchdog

Upgrade to Rushville facility included in legislation

SPRINGFIELD  –  Money will be going to Illinois’  beleaguered child safety and mental health agencies, as well as to dozens of local public works projects across the state thanks to the Illinois Senate.

On Thursday, Senators approved $2 billion in new spending that will send $675 million toward construction programs, $550 million toward state employee health care bills, $25 million toward the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, and another $12 million or so the mental health programs in the state.

But the final vote was not without its critics, including at least one Democrat. Watch at 1:32 as Sen. Mattie Hunter, D-Chicago, takes her own party to task on the spending measure.

Gov. Pat Quinn said lawmakers “did the right thing” in approving the new spending. The measure is now headed for the governor’s desk.