Rod Blagojevich Finally Sells Seat – for $10,200

(Chicago, IL) — September 18, 2009. Rod Blagojevich sold a seat for $10,200. Finally.

After 67 bids, some fool and his money was his money was parted when the person purchesed the guest seat from the set of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live in which the behinds of Blagojevich, Shaq, Paris Hilton, Tom Cruise and Denzel Washington have all rested.

There is an economic crisis?

Blagojevich was peddling his new comic book “The Governor” on Kimmel’s show.

Here’s what the pitiful fool purchased:

News Video: Blagojevich Pal Chris Kelly’s Last Days, Hours

(Chicago, IL) — September 16, 2009. Fox TV News video outlines the last days and hours of Christopher Kelly.

Kelly, 51, a former fundraiser for former Governor Rod Blagojevich, committed suicide last week after pleading guilty to federal corruption charges. Kelly was due to stand trial with Blagojevich who, along with his wife Patti Blagojevich, will attend Kelly’s funeral.

Rod Blagojevich claims that federal government “pressure” on Kelly to “lie” about Blagojevich at the upcoming trial helped trigger Kelly’s suicide.

Even death takes no holiday for Rod’s interests.

more about “News Video: Blagojevich Pal Chris Kel…“, posted with vodpod

In Blog Comment, Patricia Blagojevich Claims “A Widespred Media Attempt to Make a Fair Trial Impossible”

Patricia Blagojevich

(Chicago, IL) – September 15, 2009. It’s the media’s fault.

In a comment on THE iLLINOIS OBSERVER blog, former Illinois First Lady Patricia Blagojevich thinks “the incredible bias of the press in this state” represents an effort “to make a fair trail [trial] impossible” for former Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Wow.

Rod is chasing after appearances of WLS-Radio, Howard Stern, The View, David Letterman, the Today show, the Early Show, Glenn Beck, etc. and it is the Illinois press that is scheming to influence the outcome of the trial? Sheesh.

In her blog comment, Mrs. Blagojevich was ostensibly responding to a bit of snark in a story by THE iLLINOIS OBSERVER regarding the success of the former governor’s All Kids health insurance coverage expansion that was recently announced and the inevitable former gubernatorial boasting that would ensue–even though the expansion was unauthorized by the General Assembly and one of the impeachment charges.

However, the larger issue of the intense media scrutiny of Rod Blagojevich and its impact on the upcoming trial seem to be perched firmly upon the former first lady’s mind.

These two lines–”Cue insufferable crowing from Rod Blagojevich. Cue the gnashing of teeth by everyone else.”–provoked the following comment from Patricia Blagojevich (with a private corresponding e-mail address and IP address).

I find the last two sentences of your article both childish and offensive. It clearly represents the incredible bias of the press in this state and what could clearly be a widespread media attempt to make a fair trail impossible. It would be refreshing if at least some of you could behave in a fair and responsible way.

If there is a “widespread media attempt” to undermine the former governor’s trial, THE iLLINOIS OBSERVER has been left off the invitation list from its colleagues. Dang. Perhaps the spam filter blocked it.

Anyway.

Here is THE iLLINOIS OBSERVER’s response to Mrs. Blagojevich:

Dear Mrs. Blagojevich,

As you may know, the “All Kids” expansion by your husband’s administration occurred without authorization or appropriation by the General Assembly. As a result, it was one of the abuse of power charges brought against him during the impeachment trial.

And as beneficial as the program may be to the children covered, we remain a nation of laws, not men or women, and the law exists as means to protect the very same children against the capriciousness of government officials who maybe less disposed to their well being.

Therefore, any “All Kids” claims of credit by your husband would be indeed be found insufferable by those whose respect of and adherence to the law is equally matched by their commitment to [sic] children. In the making of the American public policy, “means” and “ends” must co-exist within the framework of state and federal constitutions.

Finally, there are many in Illinois who believe that had the former governor himself behaved “in a fair and responsible way” during his term that he would still be governor today.

Thank you for reading.

David Ormsby

It is noteworthy that the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services Chief of Staff Tamara Hoffman–who oversaw the unauthorized All Kids expansion under Blagojevich–has allegedly been put on unpaid administrative leave and escorted out of the office last Thursday as a result of an internal department investigation, according to a well-placed source, as reported in an earlier story by THE iLLINOIS OBSERVER.

No ‘good’ deed goes unpunished.

Rod Blagojevich’s “All Kids” Helps Improve Health Insurance Coverage for Illinois Children

Kathy Ryg, President, Voice for Illinois Children

(Chicago, IL) — September 10, 2009. Data released by the U.S. Census Bureau today show continued improvement in health insurance coverage for Illinois children, due largely to enrollment in the state’s “All Kids” health insurance program initiated by former Governor Rod Blagojevich, according to an analysis of the data by Voices for Illinois Children.

In 2007-2008, the state’s uninsured rate for children was 6.5 percent, compared with 8.1 percent in 2006-2007.  The national average in 2007-2008 was 10.5 percent.  In 2004-2005, the proportion of uninsured children in Illinois was 10.4 percent — about the same as the U.S. as a whole.

The latest data also show the continued long-term erosion of employment-based health insurance.  In 2007-2008, 65 percent of Illinois children had employer-sponsored coverage, down from 66 percent in 2006-2007 and 71 percent in 1990-2000.

“This improvement in health insurance for children is good news.  Still, too many families lack adequate health coverage or are at risk of losing coverage,” said Kathy Ryg, president, Voices for Illinois Children.

The data were released today on the Census Bureau’s website and represent the only data available on state-level health insurance trends over time.  The state-level figures are two-year averages of survey data in order to improve the reliability of the estimates.

Rod Blagojevich

The trends in health insurance coverage for Illinois children reflect the impact of Blagojevich’s signature “All Kids” program, which began in July 2006.

“All Kids”, a state-funded expansion of Medicaid and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), offers coverage for uninsured children regardless of family income, health status, or immigration status.

Families are responsible for monthly premiums and co-payments on a sliding scale based on household income.  For example, for a family of four at 250% of the federal poverty level, monthly premiums are $40 per child, while the maximum annual co-payment is $500 per child for hospital services.

In December 2008, about 70,000 children were enrolled in “All Kids” expansion.  In addition, there is evidence that All Kids outreach efforts and a unified application process have had positive spillover effects on enrollment in Medicaid and CHIP.

Between December 2005 and December 2008, participation of Illinois children in Medicaid increased by almost 250,000, while CHIP enrollment rose about 65,000.  Since the implementation of All Kids, the total number of children covered under state programs has increased from 1.2 million to more than 1.5 million.

“These findings confirm that All Kids has been a success,” said Ryg.

Cue insufferable crowing from Rod Blagojevich. Cue the gnashing of teeth by everyone else.

Illinois Doomsday Budget Will Likely Breach July 1 Deadline

(Springfield, IL) — The word circulating–or going around in circles–among House Democrats is no budget resolution will be achieved during the two-day session this week or before July 1.

Hello, Doomsday.

Sources say the week of July 13 seems to be target date that lawmakers and Governor Pat Quinn will finally be able to reel Illinois out of its budgetary abyss.

Budgeteers and budget staff have been hard at work behind the scenes hammering and nailing a deal–but they’re short a few planks for a full budget frame-work.

Whether Senate President John Cullerton sends Quinn the budget–Senate Bill 1157–or the state just runs on fumes is still unknown. Meanwhile, there appears no lifeline will be extended to Illinois human service providers. Just rocks.

The Illinois doomsday budget seems to be on deck.

CLTV Video: Roland Burris Discusses Wire Tap Flap with CLTV’s Garrard McClendon, Concludes Burris is Clean

(Chicago, IL) — Even one of U.S. Senator Roland Burris‘ shrinking circle of enthusiasts–Garrard McClendon, host of CLTV’s Garrard McClendon Live–is raising questions regarding Burris’ comments to Rob Blagojevich caught on a November 2008 FBI wire tap.

On McClendon’s Tuesday show, the host asked Your Two Cents if the Burris–Blagojevich discussion regarding campaign contributions to ousted Governor Rod Blagojevich’s campaign amounted to “quid pro quo”? McClendon got this answer from Your Two Cents …

When Burris’ friends are raising questions concerning his judgment, you know he’s gotta problem.

On Wednesday, McClendon discussed the wire tap at length with Burris during his show.

McClendon’s conclusion? Burris is clean.

In his most recent blog post, McClendon writes: “He’s clean…he clearly expresses his desire for the senate seat, but he doesn’t clearly state that he would pay for the seat. Game over, leave him alone. Senator Roland Burris is clean ladies and gentlemen.”

Burris needs more media friends like McClendon.

Quinn Axes IDOT’s “Midnight Raises”

(Springfield, IL) — Governor Pat Quinn has canceled the “midnight raises” of more than a dozen Illinois Department of Transportation administrators granted in Rod Blagojevich’s last days in office, the Associated Press’ John O’Connor reports.

The raises ranged from 8 percent to 31.5 percent.

Good job, Governor Quinn. Nothing more to say.

Quinn Gives a Blast from His Fumigator and Zaps Blagojevich Appointee

(Springfield, IL) — On Friday Governor Pat Quinn squeezed the trigger on his fumigator and vaporized a former Blagojevich patronage bureaucrat buried in the Illinois Department of Transportation. Zap.

Once the fog lifted IDOT personel manager Scott Doubet was out of his $106,000 a year job. Dang.

Doubet’s principal skill seemed to have been engineering raises for himself. He started at IDOT in 2004 at $55,000 and nearly doubled his pay in five years. A nice trick if you can manage it.

Doubet was one among 11 IDOT managers who snagged last minutes bonuses before the General Assembly booted his patron, Rod Blagojevich, from office. He had begun salary-raising career spree in Blagojevich’s patronage office.

Hooray for Quinn.  Making good on his “fumigation” of state government pledge is always welcome. However, Quinn’s administration is still littered with Blagojevich cronies and incompetents and worse. And the natives in the legislature are restless.

Keep the fumigator humming, Governor.

Will the Blagojevichs Need a Babysitter Today?

(Chicago, IL) – Speculation is running on steroids that impeached Governor Rod Blagojevich and Mrs. Impeached Governor Rod Blagojevich may soon need to find a babysitter.

U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald’s office put out a press release today announcing a release release will be released later this afternoon on yet to be disclosed legal action.

The expectation that has everyone’s hair on fire is that Blagojevich and possibly Patti Blagojevich will be indicted today on a goulash of corruption changes.

The Blagojevichs have two children Amy, 12, and Annie, 5.

What’s $10 an hour multiplied by 60 years?

Carol Adams May Soon Be Out the Door

(Springfield, IL) — Illinois Department of Human Services Secretary Carol Adams may soon be leaving her post. Finally.

Adams, a holdover from disgraced Governor Rod Blagojevich’s Administration, is one of the two finalists to head Chicago State University, according to CHI Town Daily News reporter Peter Sachs.

One of the big expectations among social service providers upon Pat Quinn’s ascension to the Governor’s office was that Quinn’s promised “fumigation” of state government would lead a swat team of fumigators to Adams’ door.

Perhaps a gentle nudge by Governor Quinn will do the trick.

But we’ll see. Adams’ departure has been rumoured since the first year of the Blagojevich Administration.

The university will make its decision by the end of June.

Genson Answers Longstanding Blagojevich Mystery

(Chicago, IL) — Governor Rod Blagojevich’s former attorney Edward Genson last week answered a question that has puzzled official Springfield during the six years of the governor’s tenure: whose advice does Blagojevich follow? Who is Blagojevich’s brain?

The answer?

No one.

“I never require a client to do what I say, but I do require them to at least listen,” Edward Genson said.

Rod Blagojevich advised Rod Blagojevich.

Blagojevich pursued his bizzare policy and political initiatives listening to no one’s advice–except his own. There were no crazed political strategists suggesting career-destroying decisions. It was Blagojevich. His aides only aided and abbetted Blagojevich’s warped impusles.

Mystery settled. Feel better?

Let the impeachment trial roll.

Tribune’s John Kass Takes Unfair Whack at Jimmy DeLeo

(Chicago, IL) –In a game of editorial dirty pool, Tribune columnist John Kass in his Dec. 12 column dinged State Senator Jimmy DeLeo (D-Chicago) and dragged him into the mess that is Governor Rod Blagojevich’s U.S. Senate seat sell-off derby, implying that DeLeo must be hip-deep in the Blagojevich sludge because DeLeo is DeLeo.

Kass’ evidence? None. Except his own innuendo.

In the column, Kass wrote:

DeLeo is also considered by some to be the real governor of Illinois. Blagojevich is the nutty guy who makes the speeches and gets the federal slap. They’re so close that if Jimmy suddenly stopped walking, Rod would

State Senator Jimmy DeLeo (D-Chicago)

chip his teeth on the back of Jimmy’s head.

It’s reasonable to assume that if there’s one fellow Rod would talk to about the Senate seat, it’s Jimmy. And given their relationship, Jimmy could talk to Rahm. I’m not suggesting money was offered. There is nothing illegal about politicians horse-trading to fill seats. Only when such deals are monetized—as the governor is alleged to have done—is it illegal.

I’m just talking about putting political pieces on the board the Chicago Way. A vacant Senate seat and a soon-to-be vacant House seat in Illinois would be a package deal. Consider this mathematical equation: Jimmy/Rod + Jimmy/Rahm = Happy Rod, Jimmy and Rahm. Get it?

No, Your Two Cents Less doesn’t get it. But maybe we’re a little dim.

Where do the F.B.I. transcripts refer to State Senator “A”? Nowhere. And that’s the problem with Kass’ pet theory, which is really a smear in disguise. In fact, the transcipts reveal no Blagojevich conversations with any state lawmakers–because Blagojevich rarely talked to state lawmakers. Get it?

In Springfield, Jimmy DeLeo is considered a smart politician who could talk to all sides and who liked to get things done that matter. DeLeo could talk to Blagojevich. But DeLeo’s good advice zoomed through one Blagojevich ear and out the other.

Had Blagojevich listened to a smart guy like Jimmy DeLeo, had DeLeo been “Governor” like Kass asserts, Blagojevich would not be staring at prison time today. Blagojevich listened princially to Blagojevich. Period. That’s why the fed’s tapes captured no state legislators on tape.

Kass has been a loud–and often loney journalist–braying against the corrosive and corrupting effect of political power in Illinois and Chicago from his own powerful perch. Most of the time he is on target. In this instance, he’s not. He would be wise to recognize the corrupting influence of power is not limited to politicians.

By the way, the autism insurance bill–desperately sought by parents of more than 9,000 austic children in Illinois–that Blagojevich signed after his arrest–it was sponsored by Jimmy DeLeo. He’s a guy who gets things done that matter to people.

Would Kass mention that? Nope.

Governor Blagojevich Having Another ‘Up Day’, Spokesman Says

(Chicago, IL) — From the State of Delusion, Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich is having an up day, according to his spokesman.

Blagojevich spokesman Lucio Guerrero today reports that the governor’s mood as “upbeat” and “positive”. Guerrero said, “There’s a sense of trying to return to normalcy.”

Normalcy? That must mean that Governor Blagojevich is back to indulging his delusions and spinning schemes at full-tilt boogy today. Someone better check to ensure the silver at the Governor’s Mansion is not up on E-Bay today.

Normacy. Jeez. Was Guerrero’s face screwed on straight?

Gery Chico Hosts Blagojevich Fundraiser Day Before Arrest

(Chicago, IL) — From the What’s-He-Thinking-Department, attorney Gery Chico, a former top aide to Mayor Daley and president of the Chicago Park District Board, hosted a fund-raiser for Governor Rod Blagojevich on Monday, December 8, the day before Blagojevich’s arrest.

Chico held this fundraiser despite news media reporting days earlier that disclosed the bombshell the FBI had been secretly recording Blagojevich’s conversations in connection with the ongoing gazillion federal pay-to-play corruption investigations of the Blagojevich Administration.

The FBI wiretap disclosure (a.k.a. “blinking red light”) apparently was an insufficient enough signal to Chico to call off the Blagjevich fundraising event. Nor to the contributors. Yep. There were contributors for the Blagojevich fundraiser.

At least they had brains enough to cancel their checks after Blagojevich’s arrest. Too bad they hadn’t the brains to call it off. Or even not schedule it in the first place.

Poll Says IL Dems Support Lisa Madigan for Obama Senate Seat, Jesse Jackson, Jr.’s Backing Goes Up — in Smoke

(Chicago, IL) — Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is now the favorite among Illinois Democratic voters to replace Barack Obama in the U.S. Senate, according to a new poll.

The poll, taken by Rasmussen Reports on Wednesday, December 10, also reports that U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr.’s support has plummeted since the revelations of his alleged role in Governor Rod Blagojevich’s scheming to sell the Obama Senate seat.

At least 32% of Illinois Democrats support the appointment of Attorney General Madigan to the Senate seat. Last week, her support was 17%.

Rep. Jackson’s support among Illinois Dems has dropped from 36% last week to 18% this week.

Jackson’s chances for the seat are now toast. Crunch, crunch.

Legislature Needs Governor Blagojevich to Strip Governor Blagojevich of Senate Appointment Power

(Chicago, IL) — Appropriately, the Illinois General Assembly is moving swiftly to strip Governor Rod Blagojevich of his power to appoint a replacement to Barack Obama’s U.S. Senate seat. But lawmakers will need Blagojevich’s help.

The legislature can repeal the law that grants the governor’s appointive power–but legislators need the governor to sign the repeal. If Blagojevich refuses to sign the bill before the current General Assembly expires, the repeal legislation will die, according to a top House official.

Instead, the General Assembly should make the ‘repeal’ of Governor Rod Blagojevich their top priority. That’s because Blagojevich won’t resign. Are you kidding? This guy will stay put. He needs the paycheck. He needs his delusions, too, apparently.

Lawmakers will need to impeach Blagojevich if they want change the governor’s senate appointive power anytime soon. Giddy yup, boys and girls.

What’s Increasingly on the Mind of Illinois Residents? Health Care, Economy, Bankruptcy–Suicide

(Chicago, IL) – Illinois residents are increasingly thinking about health care, the economy, bankruptcy, and, more grimly, suicide. In fact, in the days leading up to Thanksgiving, among those topics, suicide is the number one subject on their mind.

Google Search Trends in Illinois (last 12 months): Suicide (light blue), Suicide Bombing (green), Health Care (red) Economy (blue), Bankruptcy (gold)--November 25, 2008

According to a Google Trends term search, today, November 25, the search terms “suicide”, “economy”, “bankruptcy”, and “health care” coming from Illinois residents over the last 12 months began escalating in August 2008 (see chart, right). During November, “bankruptcy” and “suicide” have followed the same upward trajectory.

Google Trends uses IP address information from its server logs to make a best guess about where queries originated.

To avoid potentially confusing overlap, the term “suicide bombing” was searched to control for interest in and news media reporting on international terrorist incidents. The search results for this term among Illinois residents was negligible.

Alarmingly, between November 20 and November 23, Illinois searches of “economy”, “health care” and “bankruptcy” dropped, but “suicide” spiked (see chart).

Google Search Trends in Illinois (last 30 days): Suicide (light blue), Suicide Bombing (green), Health Care (red) Economy (blue), Bankruptcy (gold)--November 25, 2008

What are the top 10 Illinois communities searching for the term “suicide” according to Google Trends?

1. Evanston
2. Urbana
3. West Chicago
4. Champaign
5. Naperville
6. Moline
7. Springfield
8. Elmhurst
9. Chicago
10. Peoria

The Google Trends charts also reflect news media references (bottom of chart) to the terms being searched. In the case of the “economy”, the upward trend line of news media references to the economy track the online search of the “economy”. In the case of “suicide”, news media references are scarce, but Illinois search interest in “bankruptcy” and “suicide” rival “economy” search interest. Little news, but a lot of interest.

Illinois residents appear to be signaling their anxiety. But is anyone listening?

Fortunately, Governor Rod Blagojevich recently boosted behavioral health care funding. Blagojevich signed legislation on November 20 to restore $8 million to the state’s mental health care budget and $55 million to the substance abuse treatment budget which were cut earlier this year.

However, in the days and months to come, Illinois officials should be looking not only at economic data to address the crisis in Illinois, they should also pay be paying attention to what’s on the mind of Illinois residents, too.

Blagojevich Restores Funding for Substance Abuse Treatment, State Parks, RTA, Others Services; Vetoes $55 Million

(Chicago, IL) – Nearly two months after the Illinois legislature approved the money, Governor Rod Blagojevich today finally acted on the supplemental budget bill SB 1103 to restore $175.9 million in funding for several reductions made earlier this year to the Illinois budget. He vetoed $55 million.

With the Governor’s action, funding will be available for substance abuse treatment centers, Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) frontline staff, the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) reduced fare subsidy and other core services.

Those core services include:

• Addiction treatment services were restored by $55,144,500.
• Mental Health funds were restored by $8,851,200. Included in this amount was $4,285,000 for Supportive MI Housing.
• Developmental Disabilities funds were restored by $1,094,800.  In addition, $28,100,000 was restored to prevent rate reductions in ICF’s for MR programs, rate and service reductions in fee-for-service programs, and funding cuts in grant funded programs.
• Under Community Health funds, Domestic Violence Shelters and Services Programs were restored by $236,600 and Teen Parent Services $143,300.

In September, the General Assembly passed SB 790 to transfer funds, as well as the supplemental appropriations bill to appropriate $230.9 million in spending. In October, Governor Blagojevich signed the Senate Bill 790.

Blagojevich claims certain federal funds designated in SB 790 are restricted and the federal government warned that a failure to restore them would put future federal funding in jeopardy.  So the Governor vetoed  $55 million from the bill, including money to operate state historic sites. Say good-night, Abe.

Current Illinois Budget Falls Off Cliff, Shortfall May Top $1 Billion

(Springfield, IL) — Tax receipts in Illinois are dropping like lead pigeons, according to Governor Rod Blagojevich’s Illinois Department of Revenue, and the shortfall could reach $1 billion.

Each of Illinois’ key taxes – individual income tax, corporate income tax, and sales tax–have come in below estimates for the first four months of fiscal year, starting in July . If this were to continue for the next eight months, revenues would be nearly $800 million below projections–and then we’ll really be in the soup.

Thirty-two states include California, New York, Florida and Ohio are experiencing mid-year shortfalls according to the Economy.com. For example, New York is facing a $1.5 billion deficit and California last week announced that it was bringing in $11.2 billion less than the budget projected just 6 weeks ago.

• IL Individual Income Tax Individual income tax was originally projected to grow 1.1 percent, but receipts are down 4 percent compared to projections. If this continues for the remaining eight months, Individual Income Tax receipts would be about $330 million below the estimates.

• IL Corporate Income Tax Corporate Income Tax was originally projected to grow 4.1 percent, but receipts are down 14 percent. If this continues for the remaining eight months, Corporate Tax receipts will be about $270 million below the estimates.

• IL Sales Tax Originally projected to grow at 1.6 percent, receipts are down 3 percent. If this pattern continues for the remaining eight months, Sales Tax receipts will be about $215 million below the estimates.

The Department also noted that revenue from gaming taxes (existing casinos only) is likely to be $100 million.  State investment income is also projected to decline.

And if the Illinois economy worsens, as many predict it will, the shortfall between fiscal year 2009 receipts and budgeted revenues may exceed $1 billion. That’s $1 billion. The current budget may be out of whack by $1 billion.

“Snip, snip.” That’s the sound of budget cutters warming up.

Senator Heather Steans Suggests Temporary Illinois Budget Fix–”Cool Your Jets, Guv, the Dough is Coming”

(Chicago, IL) — In the bright light of Illinois Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) refusal to reconvene the

State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago)

Senate before November 12, State Senator Heather Steans (D-Chicago) is suggesting a temporary budget solution to social service agencies reeling from Governor Rod Blagojevich’s budget cuts–”cool your jets, Guv, the dough is coming.” More or less.

In her e-newsletter sent to constituents today, September 15, the first-term senator from Chicago’s North Side wrote: “I … expect the Senate will vote for the current fund transfer bill that will restore many cuts to human service programs.

“The State has enough appropriations authority to delay making the cuts until after November, with the knowledge that the Senate will pass these additional revenues.”

In other words, “the State” (i.e. Governor Blagojevich) has the authority to freeze his vetoed budget cuts and amend social service agency contracts to reflect that the money is coming down the pipeline, according to Steans.

What confidence has Steans that “the State” will heed her plea? Not much.

“Again, however, there is a risk involved and no assurance yet from the Governor that he will delay making these cuts. I much prefer going back to Springfield now to vote for the funds sweep bill and provide assurance to the human service agencies that the dollars will be restored,” Steans writes.

You gotta give Steans credit for suggesting a way out of the immediate, pretzel-twisted budget mess.

House Rolls the Dice on Illinois Lottery Lease Bill–What’s Your Vote?

(Springfield, IL)– The Illinois House today passed, 78-35, a $10 billion state lottery lease bill to fund statewide capitol construction program to build and rebuild, roads, bridges, and schools.

The legislation, drafted by House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago), authorizes Governor Rod Blagojevich to proceed and to seek and to accept $10 billion bid, but no less than $10 billion. If no one bids at least $10 billion for the lottery, there is no sale. And no construction projects.

The legislation would protect education funding at the current $600 million received annually from the lottery. Schools will lose no money.

The Madigan plan imposes multiple layers of transparency and accountability. The Treasurer and Comptroller oversee vendor selection. A new Gaming Board is appointed to monitor the lease. Lawyer fees are capped.

The legislation includes no actual road, bridge, or school construction projects. It authorizes only the lease and revenue. If the state finds a vendor to pony up the cash, then the legislature will draft legislation to spend the dough. And spend it they will.

At least nine states have considered a similar proposal; none have yet to pull the trigger. Pop.

Meanwhile, the senate needs to approve the House plan and Governor Blagojevich needs to sign it. Or rewrite it.

No bridge to anywhere will coming to your town anytime soon.

IL House Votes to Restore $55 Million to Drug Treatment

(Springfield, IL) – The Illinois House today voted unanimously to restore $55 million to the state’s alcohol and drug treatment budget which had been originally vetoed by Governor Rod Blagojevich.

The House voted 113-0 to restore the $55 million to state substance abuse treatment funding and to halt the elimination of care for 42,000 across Illinois as part of $219 million supplement budget bill (SB 1103) to restore other state programs and services also vetoed by the Governor.

The bill was sponsored by State Rep. Gary Hannig (D-Litchfield).

The state Senate is also expected to approve the money. That’s today’s expecation at least.

Tomorrow is another day.

Meeks School Boycott Costs Chicago Public Schools $100,000

(Chicago, IL) — State Sen. James Meeks (D-Chicago) two-day aborted student boycott of Chicago Public School to protest school underfunding will cost the Chicago Public Schools system more than $100,000 in potential reimbursement from the state, according to estimates.

Meeks called off his boycott after two-days because he now claims he can trust Governor Rod Blagojevich’s word to discuss school funding. The number of students boycotting school also dropped off too.

Meeks claims the boycott has been successful. He got the media sizzle that he was seeking, even though 1,000 students boycotting on the first day was a numerical fizzle. He had rented bus capacity for at least 5,000. And Chicago Public Schools today announced a record-setting first-day attendance.

Meeks got the sizzle in spite of the fizzle.

Meeks Chicago Public Schools Boycott Fizzles

(Chicago, IL) — Illinois State Senator Rev. James Meeks‘ boycott of Chicago public schools and New Trier school registration has, apparently, failed.

“We estimate well over 99-percent of our students are going to be in school and so our focus is on that 99 point 95 percent who are in school today,” said Arne Duncan, Chicago Public Schools CEO.

There are approximately 425,000 CPS students.

ABC-7 counted about 80 buses at Meek’s House of Hope church from which most of the students were supposed to be leaving. It appears only about 20 of those buses carried any people of 5-10 people each. The other buses were empty. Buses were scheduled to depart from other locations.

Winnetka and Northfield schools officials had prepared for as many as 2,000 to 3,000 Chicago public school students to appear on Tuesday. Meeks is claiming 1,000. The Chicago Tribune is reporting “hundreds” of students showed up. Ditto WBBM radio. Not a deluge.

Governor Rod Blagojevich and House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) may now be off the hook for Meeks’ $120 million special school funding demand now that the Reverend’s boycott flopped. No muscle.

Governor Blagojevich Aims to Cut 454 State Works to Balance Illinois’ Budget

(Springfield, IL) – Governor Rod Blagojevich plans to lay off more than 450 Illinois state employees from the departments of Children and Family Services, Human Services, Natural Resources and Historic Preservation, according to information provided to Illinois AFSCME by the administration.

DCFS would lose 304 positions, with 73 in DHS, 43 in DNR and 34 in Historic Preservation. The union has

Governor Rod Blagojevich

vowed to fight the cuts and seek legislative action to restore the funding.

The cuts came from amendatory vetoes the governor made last month on the Illinois budget. They will take effect on Sept. 30 in HPA, Oct. 31 in DNR, and Nov. 30 in DHS and DCFS.

The layoffs are likely to result in unmanageable caseloads for child protection, delays in obtaining benefits for needy families, and shorter hours and fewer programs at state parks and historic sites, according to Illinois AFSCME.

“The governor’s actions will put abused and neglected children at greater risk, reduce access to Medicaid and food stamps, and further harm state parks and historic sites,” AFSCME Council 31 executive director Henry Bayer said. “These cuts are irresponsible and they are deep, slashing 12 percent of the frontline workforce in child protection and more than 20 percent from historic preservation.

“The impact is made even worse when considered in light of steep cuts the Blagojevich Administration has previously made to these same agencies: Since 2001, DCFS has lost 28 percent of its frontline workforce, DNR 21 percent and DHS field offices 20 percent.”

Bayer vowed the union will fight to block them.

“There is time to reverse these cuts, but only if advocates, concerned citizens and lawmakers act quickly,” Bayer said. “Lawmakers should return to Springfield as soon as possible to take whatever action is necessary to fix the budget and stop these cuts.”

Blagojevich, Madigan–Hug

(Denver, CO) — Governor Rod Blagojevich and House Speaker Michael Madigan today hugged. Profusely.

At a breakfast for the Illinois Delegation to the Democratic National Convention, U.S. Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D-IL) was speaking at the podium and said he would to like to see Blagojevich and Madigan–hug. And they did. Multiple hugs, black slapping, and laughing. Like they enjoyed it.

The place went crazy. Applause exploded like a well-shaken champagne bottle uncorked.

It was surreal.

Senate President Emil Jones Unaware of Accord to Override Blagojevich Ethics Bill Veto

(Chicago, IL) — From Illinois’ political twilight zone, State Rep. John Fritchey (D-Chicago), the House sponsor of the ethics legislation vetoed today by Governor Rod Blagojevich, and state Sen. Debbie Halvorson, the Senate sponsor and Senate Majority Leader, have both pledged to override of Blagojevich’s amendatory veto changes.

Both Fritchey and Halvarson said they agreed during the plan’s negotiations to override any gubernatorial veto.

Fritchey says there was an agreement between House and Senate leadership and House leadership to override a full or partial veto. Ditto Halvorson.

However, Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago), claims, in today’s Chicago Tribune that he is unaware of any such agreement.

You gotta wonder if Jones and his friggin Majority Leader, Halvorson, well, friggin talk?

Senate President Emil Jones Denies Special Session Comments Made on Cliff Kelly’s WVON Radio Show

(Chicago, IL) — WVON radio host Cliff Kelly featured Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) yesterday to discuss his impending retirement, but Kelly deviated and reportedly said “Earlier today Senators [Mattie] Hunter and [Willie] Delgado held a press conference; Senator what is your position on [Governor Rod Blagojevich's] slashing funds [$55 million] from [alcohol and drug] treatment?”

Senator Jones reportedly replied “As you are aware, I am a big supporter of treatment”. He added, “The Senate okayed the bill. We are going to call a special session and get this taken care of …”

Capitol Fax’s Rich Miller reports that Senator Jones’ spokesperson issued a “flat, complete denial” of Jones’ comments regarding a special session. The spokesperson insists, per Miller, that Jones only said “the senate passed the revenue and the house needs to follow suit.”

The WVON listeners will decide.

Will Governor Blagojevich’s Poverty Commission Be too Poor to Work?

(Chicago, IL) – Governor Rod Blagojevich on August 15 signed legislation, HB 4369, to create the Commission on the Elimination of Poverty.

The Commission’s is to develop a plan to comprehensively to reduce extreme poverty in Illinois by 50% or more by 2015. People living in extreme poverty survive on less than $11,000 a year for a family of four. That is less than half the poverty level.

“The conditions of families living in poverty are unacceptable,” said Governor Blagojevich. “I am proud to sign this bill today, which will help us start making real progress toward eliminating poverty in Illinois.”

The poverty commission’s mission might be undermined by the commission’s own poverty.

According to the Governor’s press release, “HB 4369 is subject to appropriation…” We’ll see if the commission gets its dough.

HB 4369 was sponsored by Rep. Karen Yarbrough and Sen. Michael Frerichs and passed unanimously in both the Senate (58-0) and the House (115-0).

Blagojevich Axes $45 Million from Abused and Neglected Children Care

(Springfield, IL)— Abused and neglected kiddies got wacked, too.

Among the $1.4 billion vetoed by Governor Rod Blagojevich from the Illinois budget, the Governor cut more

Gov. Rod Blagojevich

than $45 million to fund foster care for the state’s 16,000 abused and neglected children, threatening care and jeopardizing federal government funding.

“The Governor’s vetoes undermine care for abused and neglected children. No way around it,” said Marge Berglind, CEO of Child Care Association of Illinois.

“What abused and neglected children need most is a caseworker’s attention, and they’ll get a whole lot less attention if Governor Blagojevich’s cuts stand,” said Berglind. “A caseworker’s caseload will jump from 15 to 1 to 20 to 1 in a heartbeat.”

If a caseworker’s caseload spikes to 20 to 1, then Illinois will risk failing federal outcome requirements for the foster children care. The state’s failure to meet those outcomes will jeopardize Illinois’ federal funding which constitutes almost one half of the annual DCFS foster care budget.

Balancing budget vetoes will unbalance the budget. Go figure.

Blagojevich Threatened Budget Veto of HIV/AIDS Drugs Evaporates

(Chicago, IL) — Among the $1.4 billion of budget cuts that Governor Rod Blagojevich had threatened to veto in the open-ended slug-fest with the legislature was $1.0 million for HIV/AIDS medication.

But the Governor spared the money. The money escaped the veto knife.

HIV/AIDS medication for approximately 100-200 individuals through the state AIDS drug assistance program will be available to expand eligibility for the working poor.

Thank Him for small miracles.

Governor Blagojevich Threatens Budget Cuts to HIV/AIDS Testing, Drugs

(Chicago, IL) — Among the $1.5 billion of budget cuts that Governor Rod Blagojevich threatens in the open-ended slug-fest with the legislature is $1.5 million for HIV/AIDS testing and medication.

Unless the Illinois House of Representatives led by the Governor’s arch nemesis Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) approves assorted revenue raising schemes demanded by Governor Blagojevich, the Governor will cut:

• HIV/AIDS medication for approximately 100-200 through the AIDS drug assistance program because there will be no funding to expand eligibility–$1,000,000

• HIV/AIDS testing and links to healthcare for 10,000 uninsured residents who are unaware of their HIV status–$500,000

Without medication, people infected by the HIV/AIDS virus tend to, well, die. Without testing, people infected by the HIV/AIDS virus and who are unaware of their status tend to, well, spread the virus.

Despite threatening to eliminate the $1.5 million for HIV/AIDS testing and drug money, Governor Blagojevich will maintain a $400 million increase for elementary and secondary education championed by the Governor’s key and nearly only political ally Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago).

Tonight Governor Blagojevich is holding a fund-raiser at the River East Arts Center to extol his leadership. If you want to show your support, the Governor provides oodles of levels to show your appreciation for his good deeds:

• $20,000–Co-Chair
• $15,000–Benefactor
• $10,000–Patron
• $5,000–Sponsor
• $500–Ticket

The VIP reception is 5:30-6:00 p.m. The rest of the herd gathers between 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Please make your cheque payable to: Friends of Blagojevich.

If this event eats into your healthcare budget, you can attend the Gay Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29. The Governor or the Governor’s contingent will likely march. You can give him a thumbs up–or whatever finger you want to wave–there.

Governor Blagojevich Threatens to Slash $600 Million from Healthcare, $110 Million from Education, $106 Million from Seniors and Veterans

(Springfield, IL) — Governor Rod Blagojevich today threatened to veto $1.5 billion in budget spending if the Illinois House refused to pass the Senate’s revenue package.

Reductions would be required to close a $2 billion dollar shortfall in the Fiscal Year 2009 budget passed by the General Assembly in May.

“As I’ve said before, the budget sent to me fails to meet the Constitutional requirement that spending be matched by funding to pay for it, and it jeopardizes the State’s ability to meet core responsibilities like teaching our children, providing healthcare, and protecting the public,” Blagojevich said. Blah, blah, blah.

Blagojevich gave the Illinois House until July 9 to adopt the Senate’s approved revenue bills. Or else. Bang. Granny gets it neck.

Items on the budget chopping block and consequences:

• Reductions in staffing throughout State government at agencies such as Department of Natural Resources, Department of Human Services, Department of Corrections, and others

• Increased workload for DCFS caseworkers.

• A $110 million reduction in education spending.

• Nearly $260 million in reductions to social services programs. Over 100,000 individuals would see a reduction in services or access to community health and prevention services; 21,000 individuals with developmental disabilities living in the community would face reductions in service; mental health services and programs for individuals with developmental disabilities would be reduced; rates for foster parents would not increase.

• A $257 million reduction to economic development and transit. More than 100,000 workers will not receive job-skills training, and state support for RTA fare subsidies for students and people with disabilities would be eliminated.

• More than $600 million in healthcare reductions. This includes a $530 million Medicaid reduction resulting in healthcare providers such as hospital and pharmacies waiting an additional 20 days for payment from the State, on top of the 70 days they already wait; 20,000 outpatients would not receive service at Oak Forest Hospital; and up to 10,000 uninsured residents who are unaware of their HIV status would not be identified and linked to healthcare.

• More than $106 million in reductions to services for seniors and Veterans. Expansion of the Elder Abuse Line would not be funded, despite a 25 percent increase in calls to the line since its inception. An additional 40 bed expansion at the LaSalle Veteran’s Home would not open.

That the “Health Care Governor” would threaten $600 million in health care cuts and $110 million in education spending reductions, a priority of chief Blagojevich ally Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago), suggests that Governor Blagojevich will risk his health care credentials and the Jones alliance sheerly to outmaneuver House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) in round 3,457 of their grudge match. Sheez.

And Speaker Madigan’s likely response? “Ok, cut.”

Blagojevich, White Squeeze Dead-Beat Parents of $1.3 Million

(Chicago, IL) – Governor Rod Blagojevich and Secretary of State Jesse White recently announced that under a new program that suspends driver’s licenses of dead-beat parents who fail to pay child support the state has collected $1.3 million from 3,082 non-custodial parents.

The Blagojevich-White partnership began earlier this year.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2008, under a new state law, the Department of Human and Family Services (HFS) first mails warning notices to dead-beat parents who have Illinois driver’s licenses and who are refusing to pay their child support. If the delinquent parent owes $2,500 or more and refused to contact HFS , their name is submitted to the Secretary of State’s office.

If parents do not begin making payments, their driver’s licenses will be suspended in 60 days.

In fiscal year 2007, Illinois child support collections reached $1.22 billion, an increase of more than 7 percent from the $1.14 billion record-breaking collections for the state in fiscal year 2006. In 2001, by comparison, $726 million was collected.

A good program that is working. Whatta ya know.

New Illinois Budget Boosts Human Services with Bits of Unfunded Kibble

(Springfield, IL) — Despite the fact that Illinois General Assembly approved a new state budget with a projected $2.1 billion deficit, it still managed the head-scratching feat to underfund human services, like foster care, mental health care, drug treatment, etc.

• The state’s 7,500 foster parents had asked the legislature to help them offset galloping food and energy prices with a $24 million grant. Lawmakers ok’d $5 million. That’s about $9.75 per child per week. A couple gallons of milk. Whoopee.

• The Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association begged for $41 million for the financially-starved alcohol and drug abuse treatment system which currently has 7,500 people on waiting lists. The legislature approved $3 million.

• Mental health advocates sought $42 million to expand care to nearly 17,000 people. Legislators provided $2 million.

How can the Illinois General Assembly simultaneously overspend and and underfund in the same budget? It takes a special kind of talent.

Now human service providers are nervously wondering if Gov. Rod Blagojevich will veto these bits of unfunded kibble.

Can Illinois’ dysfunctional politics morph into anything more surreal than this?

Gov. Blagojevich Plans Chicago Fund-Raiser for June 26

(Chicago, IL) — Gov. Rod Blagojevich will hold a fund-raiser in Chicago on June 26.

Gov. Blagojevich’s fund-raising bash at the the River East Arts Center comes fours days before the end of campaign finance reporting period. The timing indicates that the Governor wants to send a message about his political strength. Soon.

Gov. Blagojevich is looking for big dough:

• $20,000–Co-Chair
• $15,000–Benefactor
• $10,000–Patron
• $5,000–Sponsor
• $500–Ticket

The VIP reception is 5:30-6:00 p.m. The rest of the herd gathers between 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Please make your cheque payable to: Friends of Blagojevich.

Illinois School Districts Still Waiting on Special Education Money

(Springfield, IL) — Money for local schools to pay for special education expenses is sitting in Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s office.

On April 2, the House approved, 109-0, a senate supplemental appropriations bill, Senate Bill 1874, to provide $21 million to local school districts this fiscal year to pay for special educations expenses who are getting less this year than last.

The measure was sent to Gov. Blagojevich’s office on May 1. And there it squats.

The program, adopted by legislature in 2004, provides reimbursement to school districts for individual students with disabilities whose program costs exceed 4 times the district’s per capita tuition rate.

The schools are due the money. But, so far, they got scratch.

State Sen. Gary Forby (D-Benton), left, sponsored the legislation.

When the Blagojevich Administration will release the money is uncertain.

Senator Garrett Acts to Block Illinois Legislative, Gov Pay Raises

(SPRINGFIELD, IL)— State Senator Susan Garrett (D – Lake Forest) filed a resolution on May 8 that would reject the state Compensation Review Board’s 2008 recommended salary hikes for the Governor, other constitutional officers, and the Illinois General Assembly.

Garrett’s measure rejects a 2008 report of the Compensation Review Board recommending a 3.8% raise for Fiscal Year 2009. In addition, the report recommends the state legislature accepts two previously rejected raises which would boost salaries big time for Illinois public officials.

“This state can’t pay its own bills… And those who are employed are not being offered raises. I don’t believe there is any justification for a pay increase for state legislators,” Garrett.

Essentially, Garrett is saying that Governor Rod Blagojevich and Illinois General Assembly haven’t earned the raise. Which is true.

The General Assembly has 30 session days after the House and Senate next convene following the filing of the Report to reject the raises. Using the current session calendar, May 29th would be the 25th day leaving only 5 additional session days–which means overtime in June–within which the legislature could tube the raises.

The Illinois House has already rejected the salary hikes. Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) supports the raise. He says he needs the dough. Oh.

Gov. Blagojevich Urges Drivers to Buckle Up in May, Or Else

(Springfield, IL) — Governor Rod Blagojevich today announced that the Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies will conduct the largest Click It or Ticket operation in the state’s history during the month of May.

The aim of the new campaign is to push the current 90% compliance rate to 100%.

The announcement comes at the 5th anniversary of Gov. Blagojevich’s signing the primary safety belt law in 2003. Statewide safety belt compliance has increased 14% from 76.2% in 2003 to 90.1% in 2007.

“When worn correctly, safety belts reduce the risk of fatal injury to front-seat passenger car occupants by 45 percent – and by 60 percent – in pickup trucks, SUVs and mini-vans,” said Secretary of Transportation Milton Sees.

Illinois presently has the lowest fatality numbers since 1924.

The operation will include 500 local, state and county law enforcement agencies will dedicate over 15,000 hours between May 1 and June 1, 2008. Additionally, an $800,000 advertising campaign will aim to persuade motorists to buckle up while driving both day and night.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates safety belt compliance drops by approximately 10% at night. Even though only 25% of travel occurs at night, the fatality rate per vehicle mile of travel is about three times higher at night than during the day.

Put on the damn belt. Sheesh.

Gov. Blagojevich Halts Health Plan Under Court Order

(Springfield, IL) — Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s administration has halted enrollment in its controversial opposed by state lawmakers.

Rockford Register Star reporter Aaron Chambers reports today that a Blagojevich administration memo dated April 22, has ordered an end to the enrollment of adults earning more than $13,832 annually. Pregnant women may earn up to $20,800 and still enroll.

The enrollment halt complies with a Cook County judge’s April 15 order stopping the Gov. Blagojevich’s plan.

It is unclear whether the new enrollees coverage will continue or whether the state will pay their bills.

Administrations officials claims the program’s cost totals less than $20 million this year. The Illinois General Assembly has, however, appropriated no money for the health plan.

Who knows.

Number of Illinois Residents Waiting in 2008 for Alcohol, Drug Abuse Treatment Jumps 17%, New U of I Report Says

(Springfield, IL) – The estimated number of Illinois residents waiting for alcohol and drug abuse assessment and treatment at state-financed facilities in 2008 rose 17 percent in, according to a report released at a press conference in Springfield on May 1.

The report by the Survey Research Laboratory at the University of Illinois at Chicago surveyed 106 Illinois community treatment providers in December 2007 and revealed 7,541 people were waiting for some form of treatment, up from 6,467 in March 2007.

“Substance abuse treatment works best when an individual is ready,” said Sara Moscato Howe, right, CEO of the Illinois Alcoholism and Drug Dependence Association. “Turning people away at the door is unacceptable and only leads to crises for the person and the community.”

Moscato Howe said the state must invest $41 million this year to provide care to the growing number of untreated Illinois residents, to decrease wait times, and to provide relief to community service providers burdened by escalating expenses.

State Sen. Jeff Schoenberg (D-Evanston), left, is backing Moscato Howe’s call for additional money. Schoenberg is sponsoring legislation, S.B. 2886, to boost funding by $41 million in this year’s budget.

“Illinois is losing the battle against drug and alcohol abuse by failing to care for those who need treatment,” said Schoenberg. “We must stop the growing number of people forced on to waiting lists. We must be able to provide services for those who need help by adequately funding substance abuse treatment and prevention.”

Across the state, northern Illinois has the most people, 2,168, waiting for care. The fewest, 830, is in southern Illinois. The report also estimated that 595 youth are waiting for treatment. Central Illinois has the most youth waiting for treatment with 182 on waiting lists.

On May 2, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced that the Illinois Department of Human Services and Prevention First, unveiled new public service announcements alerting parents and young people to the dangers of illegal and prescription drug abuse. How nice. Now show us the money.

The funding legislation’s fate is uncertain.

Blagojevich Administration Downplays Jobs Picture, 50,000 More Illinois Workers Unemployed Since 2007

(Springfield, IL) — Governor Rod Blagojevich’s Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) attempted to put statistical lipstick on the state’s latest unemployment numbers pig.

On April 24, the Department announced the new March 2008 unemployment numbers for Illinois with the headline: “Jobs Up or Stable Throughout Illinois”. However, the agency failed to mention Illinois’ unemployment rate. It’s 5.5%. That’s up from 4.9% in March 2007. No mention of that either. Zilch. (See chart). The U.S. unemployment rate is 5.0%.

Illinois has 51,416 more people unemployed in March 2008 than a year ago. No mention of that too. Zip.

IDES’s director James Sledge boasts that since the beginning of the year Illinois has added 13,000 more jobs than other Midwest states. But the director’s “happy news” ignores that Illinois is still 50,000 jobs in the hole and has the second highest unemployment rate of our immediate neighbors, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Indiana 5.1%
• Iowa 3.5%
• Kentuck 5.7%
• Missouri 5.7%
• Wisconsin 4.8%

Mr. Sledge provides a disservice to Gov. Blagojevich. He should just provide Illinois citizens the facts and knock-off the pretzel-twisting, misleading “happy news”. The spin hurts the Governor.

Blagojevich Administration Says Illinois Saved $34 Million From State Health Programs Last Year

(Springfield, IL) — From the Take-It-With-A-Grain-of-Salt-Department, Governor Rod Blagojevich’s Administration announced on Tuesday that the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services saved $34 million during fiscal year 2007 through more efficient management of its medical programs.

The Blagojevich Administration says the savings resulted from the implementation of a Primary Care Case Management program and a Disease Management program for the almost 1.7 million individuals who receive their healthcare through HFS medical programs, which includes the state’s Medicaid program.

Those savings, the Blagojevich Administration claims, will pay for the first year of the All Kids expansion, which increased eligibility from 200 percent of the federal poverty level to all uninsured children and cost $22.8 million in fiscal year 2007.

In the past, the Illinois Auditor General William Holland has questioned in various audits Blagojevich Administration claims of program savings. If Holland gets assigned an audit request, we’ll see.

Gov. Blagojevich Says CDC Commends Illinois for Work to Eliminate Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS

(Springfield, IL) — In spite of the Tony Rezko trial bombshells and other legal artillery salvos, the Good-News-Department crew, under all the treacherous fire, smuggled out from the Blagojevich Administration–good news.

Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced today the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has commended Illinois for its efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

Illinois was the only state asked to present its program, “Safety Net of Perinatal HIV Prevention in Illinois,” at a recent CDC conference addressing mother-to-child HIV transmission. Illinois’ program has become a model for other states and countries.

Recent data, from October through December 2007, reveals that health professionals knew the HIV status of newborns and their mothers 99.97% of the time upon hospital discharge.

“… [M]ore than 99 percent of mother-to-newborn transmissions of HIV can be prevented if a pregnant woman is tested for HIV … and treated with medications before and after the birth of her child,” said Dr. Damon T. Arnold, Illinois Department of Public Health Director.

It’s a shame, however, that Gov. Blagojevich vetoed money for HIV/AIDS programs last year simply to smite House Democrats. Otherwise, the Governor’s record would be pretty stellar.

Gov. Blagojevich Says “Pork”, Senate President Jones Says “Vital Programs”

(Springfield, IL) –Since Gov. Rod Blagojevich (D-Chicago) vetoed House Democrat and Senate Republican member initiatives from last year’s budget, Governor Blagojevich has described the initiatives as “pork” and “special pet projects”.

In an effort to sweet-talk House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) and rank-and-file Democrats to support the Governor’s plan to sweep $530 million from special state funds for the Governor’s health care insurance expanding and budget deficit plugging, H.B. 473, Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) refers to the legislative initiatives, on his Senate Democrat Web site home page, as “vital programs“.

“This [H.B. 473] is a genuine effort to make the current fiscal year’s budget whole. Funds for vital programs and projects that were vetoed by the Governor last summer have been reinstated in this legislation with the monies to pay for them,” Jones writes.

Pundits say Blagojevich and Jones are joined at the hip. But some hips can be replaced. Or at least PR people.

Gov. Blagojevich Accepts $25 Million Plan to Protect IL Colleges

(Springfield, IL) – During a ceremony on the University of Illinois-Chicago campus, Gov. Rod Blagojevich on Tuesday accepted a 259-page report from the Campus Security Task Force which details recommendations for increasing security at the more than 180 higher education facilities in Illinois.

Gov. Blagojevich agreed to a $25 million grant to boost campus security and require campus emergency response and violence prevention plans, saying he would act quickly to push for legislative approval. Good luck.

By this point, Gov. Blagojevich should know “quickly” and “legislative approval” do not belong in the same sentence.

The report also includes detailed guidance for college administrators and security officials in response, mental health and prevention, and legal issues.

The task force’s report was originally expected earlier this year, but members decided to include feedback from the response to the shootings at  Northern Illinois University.

Task force members met with NIU officials a few weeks after the incident. While the formal investigation into the incident is ongoing, task force members noted that NIU’s response represents a model for emergency planning, response and recovery.

The money is included in the Gov. Blagojevich’s capitol plan.

Another good idea that will be stuck in the Springfield muck.

Lt. Gov. Quinn, Rep. Franks Slam Phony-Baloney, Shenanigans

(Chicago, IL) — Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn and State Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock) pooled their moral-outrage on Friday to denounce “shenanigans”–sounds like naughty Irish school kids–in the state Senate who outfoxed proponents of the recall amendment to the Illinois Constitution.

“…[T]here are senators who are preparing a sneak attack on this vital issue. Those senators need to know that voters will not stand for a phony-baloney attack on grassroots democracy,” said Quinn.

That’s right. Illinois voters want the real baloney–otherwise–they’ll sit down on their well-sat behinds rather than stand for imitation baloney.

On Wednesday, the Illinois House voted 75 – 33 in favor of HJRCA28, a constitutional amendment that would give Illinois voters the right of recall, empowering them to remove inept or unfit or ilkept politicians from office. The genuine baloney apparently.

Although introduced last year by State Sen. Dan Cronin, (R-Elmhurst), the amendment’s sponsorship was snagged when no-one was looking by State Sen. Donne Trotter, (D-Chicago), right –one of the “shenanigans” lurking about the capitol with the suspect baloney tucked, unseen, under his arm.

“Now, Senator Trotter has hijacked the bill with the intention of killing it before the members of the Senate ever have a chance to debate the bill,” said Rep. Franks.

Yes, Illinois politicians are playing games with the voters’ brand of baloney. The plebes expect the real thing and may get snooty with a pirated copy of baloney. Smells fishy.

The Senate must approve HJRCA28 by a three-fifths majority before May 4 if it is to appear on the Nov. 4 ballot. Once on the ballot, it would require approval by at least three-fifths of those voting on the question or a majority voting in the election.

In November, a statewide poll by Glengariff Group found that 65% of Illinois voters supported the recall idea.

How will voters react if they get the phony-baloney decried by Messrs. Quinn and Franks, who fear no boomerangs, rather than real stuff on Nov. 4? Will they vote against all baloney, phoney and otherwise? Stay tuned.

IL Gaming Board Holds Hearing on 24-Hour Gambling as Smoking Ban Sinks Riverboat Casino Revenues

(Chicago, IL) — The Illinois Gaming Board held a special meeting on Tuesday, April 8 to take public testimony on 24-hour gambling in Illinois.

The gaming industry is seeking the state board’s approval.

The Gaming Board will be considering the proposal as riverboat casino revenues sink like a lead poker chip.

Eric Noggle, Senior Revenue Analyst at the Illinois Commission on Government Forecasting and Accounting, wrote in the commission’s March report that the boats’ adjusted gross revenue is down $21 million for Fiscal Year 2008 so far compared to last year at this point, hinting strongly that the state smoking ban is a big culprit.

“Since the indoor smoking ban went into effect, statewide adjusted gross receipts have declined a whopping 15.2%,” Noggle wrote.

Noggle also noted that Indiana’s gaming revenues were down only 4.8% and Missouri’s were up 6.4% during the first two months of the ban.

In addition to the smoking ban, the boats face the threat of a tax hike proposed by Gov. Rod Blagojevich this year; so, they need a life-line and 24-hour gambling seems to be it.

House Gaming Chair Lou Lang (D-Skokie), above, supports the 24-hour gaming proposal.

“What’s the difference between 18, 22, and 24 hours?” Lang asked.

The Board will make a decision later this month.

Gov. Blagojevich Sends Lawmakers, Leaders to Early Education Meeting at Harvard, Plugs IL’s 1st in Nation Pre-School Status

(Springfield, IL) — From the Give-Credit-Where-Credit-Is-Due-Department, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced on Friday that a group of Illinois leaders had been selected to participate in the National Symposium on Early Childhood Science and Policy at Harvard University this summer, and he noted a nugget as rare as a tropical palm and good grace in Springfield: a genuine administration policy success. Kid you not.

Illinois’ pre-kindergarten program was ranked first nationally for enrolling 19 percent of the state’s three-year-olds, according to The State of Preschool 2007: State Preschool Yearbook released in March. Nationwide, enrollment of three-year-olds was up 10 percent, mostly due to increases here in Illinois, which became the first state to commit to serving all three-year-olds.

Blagojevich has increased funding for his early childhood education program, Preschool for All, by 90 percent, or $164 million, over the past five years. The FY 2009 budget includes additional funding to further expand the program.

With so many other lagging, slouching, and slumping state indicators, the state’s 1st place pre-school status is bona fide good news. Blagojevich gets the credit. Of course, that will infuriate the Governor Blagojevich’s fiercest critics–which amounts to just about everyone.

Illinois’ team members attending the symposium in Cambridge, Mass. on June 26 and 27 include: Dr. Christopher A. Koch, State Superintendent of Education; State Senator Don Harmon, D-Oak Park; State Senator Pamela Althoff, R-McHenry; State Represtentative Barbara Flynn Currie, D-Chicago; State Representative Jerry Mitchell, R-Sterling; Kelly King Dibble, senior vice president and director of Public Affairs and Government Relations at Northern Trust and board member for Ounce of Prevention; Jerome Stermer, president of Voices for Illinois Children; and Elliot M. Regenstein, Co-Chair, Illinois Early Learning Council.

Of course this year’s battle over the ‘Ugly Betty’ budget at the capitol–which likely will resemble a pre-school classroom–may short-circuit the lawmakers’ attendance. But let’s savor the moment.

State Legislature Approves Money for Hospitals, Schools–A Blueprint to Next Year’s State Budget?

(Springfield, IL) — During the last month, the quarreling House and Senate approved key supplemental money bills to provide dough needed by and owed to state hospitals and schools, and they accomplished this feat on unanimous votes. Unanimous.

Could they these rare acts of cooperation show the way and motivation to a budget sometime this year? Or next?

On March 6, the House approved legislation, 106-0, to pay–finally–Illinois hospitals the $1.2 billion in Medicaid money due the hospitals under the deal worked out under the Hospital Assessment Tax program, and the Senate–finally–sent the bill to the Governor this past Friday, March 28.

The payment, which should have gone to the hospitals last year, fell victim to last year’s budget brawl. State Sen. Jeff Schoenberg (D-Evanston), right, revived the hospital payment effort last fall, filing Senate Bill 1863 on September 18, and got it through the Senate on February 28.

In addition to the $1.2 billion paid to the hospitals, the State is now eligible to claim $600 million more in a federal match, according to the Illinois Hospital Association.

All good news.

Yesterday, the House approved, 109-0, a senate supplemental appropriations bill, Senate Bill 1874, to provide $21 million to local school districts this fiscal year to pay for special educations expenses who are getting less this year than last.

The program, adopted by legislature in 2004, provides reimbursement to school districts for individual students with disabilities whose program costs exceed 4 times the district’s per capita tuition rate.

The schools, like the hospitals, were due the money. The legislature, with State Sen. Gary Forby (D-Benton), left, spearheading it in Senate, got it done. Finally.

Which brings us to next year’s budget.

The complete absence of trust among the warring parties has incinerated the leaders’ budget-making process. House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-Chicago) has already signaled that he has no interest in attending budget meetings with Senate President Emil Jones (D-Chicago) and Gov. Rod Blagojevich. So, now what?

Budget making bill by bill, amendment by amendment, continuing resolution by continuing resolution, drip by drip. The howling of unpaid vendors and local governments drives the process. Voila. Federal budget making. A budget in pieces. Late. No session end. No session beginning.

No face-to-face negotiations amongst the leaders. “Look, Ma, no meetings!” Just an ‘Ugly Betty’–a.k.a. a budget by a different name built on need not trust.

Ok, maybe not. But can you image all five of these dudes in same room anytime soon?