Update: Illinois lawmakers have given final approval to a new state budget, with Democrats calling it balanced and responsible, and Republicans blasting it as bloated and full of gimmicks.
The House passed the $50.6 billion budget around 2:30 am Saturday and sent it to Governor JB Pritzker, who said he would sign it.
Pritzker says the budget makes historic investments in children and families. Still, the GOP complains that it puts more money toward health care for undocumented people, while ending a scholarship program that allowed some low-income kids to attend private or religious schools.
Original: It looks like it will be a late night for Illinois lawmakers trying to finish work on a new state budget.
The Illinois Senate approved the $50.6 billion spending plan Thursday night on a party-line vote.
No Republicans supported the budget proposal crafted by Democratic leaders and Governor JB Pritzker; under state law, the earliest the House could give final approval is early Saturday morning.
Unless there are last-minute complications, that vote is expected sometime shortly after midnight tonight, after which the legislature will adjourn until the fall.
