The Majority Report

Senate President talks pensions with City Club of Chicago

On Monday, Senate President John J. Cullerton spoke to Chicago's City Club to discuss his personal insights on pensions, including a brief history and basic but rich narrative on how the state's systems work.

Cullerton's presentation put the past and present Illinois pension system into perspective within our current budget situation. The President reiterated his belief that existing public pensions are protected by the Illinois Constitution, but said there are other avenues that could draw down the state's substantial retirement benefits costs. President Cullerton highlighted possible reforms lawmakers could pursue that could potentially save the state millions. Read more, watch the video, see graphics, and find links to history of the issue...

Related: Illinois retirees' pension checks boost Illinois economy

Illinois Senate hears special presentation from Medicaid Expert

Thursday, the Senate convened a special Committee of the Whole to hear a presentation on Medicaid from Joy Johnson Wilson, Health Policy Director for the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL).

Johnson Wilson's presentation covered many Medicaid-related issues, from the impact of the new federal health Care law (the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act), to cost-saving measures other states have taken. After her presentation, Johnson Wilson took questions from State Senators from both sides of the aisle. Watch our interview and see Ms. Johnson Wilson's presentation...

Related: Steans Reacts to Senate Committee of the Whole Medicaid presentation

Other news this week:
 

•  Illinois ranks higher than surrounding states in ethics reform
•  Forby, Phelps line up $15,000 tornado recovery donation
•  Silverstein discusses criminal law bills related to high-profile cases
•  Hunter, Raoul recognized for racial justice reform efforts

Next week: the deadline for third readings on substantive Senate bills is Friday, March 30