Illinois Lawmakers Adopt Plan to Borrow To Pay For Pensions

Springfield, Ill. - The Illinois House has approved key pieces of a Democratic budget plan that attempts to address the state's massive budget deficit.

One measure would borrow $3.7 billion to make the state's annual contribution to government pension systems.

Another would give Gov. Pat Quinn broad power to decide where to cut spending. Quinn would also be allowed to borrow from special government funds.

A third measure cuts administrative spending by 5 percent.

The budget plan would leave more than $6 billion in unpaid bills at the end of the year.

Republicans call the package irresponsible. Democratic leaders argue legislators wouldn't support higher taxes or dramatic spending cuts, so this was the only alternative.

The House action Tuesday night is just one step. Now the budget goes to the Senate.