IL State Senate passes school choice bill
The Illinois State Senate passed legislation to allow students in poorly performing Chicago school to receive a voucher to attend a private school. This is great news for the children of Chicago. However, it should be expanded to the entire state. All children deserve equal funding, not just some kids in Chicago. It is time [...]
Fox News Chicago on Illinois Pensions
March 24, 2010 by admin
Filed under Funding Reform, General
Below is the story and my interview on Fox News Chicago tonight on Illinois pensions: UPDATE: The Illinois Legislature passed some semblance of pension reform tonight. See more details at Illinois Review.
Why is Palatine CCSD 15 Borrowing Without Voter Approval?
Palatine District 15 is looking to issues bonds (borrow money) without voter approval. This money is to be used in their working cash fund and in new construction projects. The problem is they are not getting voter approval to do this because legally they don’t have to. This is called a back door referendum. According [...]
Illinois’ Financial State of the State
March 23, 2010 by admin
Filed under Funding Reform, General
Truth In Accounting has the following on Illinois financial troubles: The revised numbers indicate that Illinois’ unfunded promises for state employees’ health care benefits now exceed $39.9 billion. As of June 30, 2007 this amount was calculated to be $23.9 billion. We have yet to determine why this liability went up by $16 billion in [...]
11 Pension Questions for the Next Governor
From Bill Zettler (Champion News) By Bill Zettler RE: Retirement Benefits for State Employees vs. Non-state Employees. NOTE: 320,000 of Illinois 6.5 million workers (5%) are eligible for state pension and retiree health care. Why can 5% of Illinois workers retire with full pension and healthcare benefits at age 55 while the 95% have to [...]
100 Top State Pensions for 2009
March 20, 2010 by admin
Filed under Funding Reform, General
The pensions in the state have gotten out of hand are a burden on the taxpayers of this state, especially since the state has no sense of responsibility in funding them properly. Below are some of the highlights (See the full list at Champion News) 3,597 Illinois “Public Servants” Receive $100,000 Plus. Pensions In 2009 [...]
Michigan Teacher Perks
Hat tip: Extreme Wisdom
