It’s been 247 days since the state of Illinois had a budget. In that time, the nation of Iran struck a deal with America to limit its nuclear program and the United States reestablished diplomatic relations with Cuba. But in Springfield there is still no peace.
This week's flashpoint was funding for higher education, particularly the MAP grants that make college more affordable for people from low-income backgrounds. There was also a poll on Gov. Bruce Rauner's approval, and more bad news on the economic outlook for Illinois.
Dan Petrella, recently appointed Statehouse bureau chief for Lee Enterprises, makes his State Week debut with regular panelists Amanda Vinicky, Charlie Wheeler and Brian Mackey.
