There was a flurry of activity this week in Springfield as the General Assembly returned to Springfield as the clock ticks down for final action by the 96th General Assembly with the main focus on taxes and the budget. It was widely reported that the Democratic leaders TENTATIVELY agreed on a major tax and borrowing package to address the multi-billion structural deficit. However, the General Assembly did not formally take action and both chambers recessed for the week. The Illinois House returns to legislative action on Sunday afternoon while the Senate will return on Monday. If final action does not occur prior to the inauguration of the members of the new Illinois General Assembly (on Wednesday, January 12th) legislative efforts must begin anew.

Look for a report mid to late next week as negotiations and debate continue over the next several days.