By Associated Press
Springfield, IL – The old Illinois budget is about to expire, so Governor Pat Quinn may take action today on a new spending plan despite his complaints it doesn't meet the state's needs. The fiscal year ends at midnight tonight, so Quinn will want to have a new budget in place before that. Quinn isn't a fan of the budget lawmakers sent him, saying it shortchanges education, human services and other critical needs. But there is little the governor can do. He has the power to cut appropriations but not to add to them. Major spending increases would require blocking the entire budget and telling lawmakers to start over. Quinn says he doesn't plan a public appearance to discuss the budget.