Governor OKs bill to bring funding back to local government

 

From Illinois Business Journal news services

SPRINGFIELD — Millions of dollars owed to local communities will soon be on its way after the governor signed off on a bill passed by the State Senate earlier in the day.

The funding is for items such as winter road maintenance, mental health facilities and funding for community colleges.

“This measure is a great step forward in getting Illinois back on track,” Sen. Bill Haine said, D-Alton. “These funds are important to local communities and should have never been tied up in the first place. Today, we were able to compromise and now municipalities across Madison and St. Clair counties will receive the funding they need in order to provide essential services. I am pleased to see that Governor Rauner is willing to compromise with us on this important issue.”

The House passed SB 2039 last week and the Senate concurred on the measure Monday..

The measure also includes funding for the following:

• $1 billion to the Lottery for prizes.

• $582.5 million to IDOT for local governments share of motor fuel gas tax revenues.
• $43 million to the Community College Board for career and technical education activities.
• $45 million to the Department of Revenue so local governments can receive their share of video gaming proceeds.
• $3.1 million to the Illinois Math and Science Academy to allow them to access their income funds and pay operating costs.
• $31 million to IDOT to purchase road salt.
• $2.5 million for breast cancer services and research.
• $28 million for nursing home licensing and inspections.
• $165 million for home heating bill assistance.
• $77 million for 911-related costs.
• $3.1 million to the Illinois Department of Public Health for the Tobacco Quitline.