The Illinois Senate has rejected a proposal to limit the governor's power to close prisons and other state facilities. The bill would have required legislative approval before a governor could shut down facilities.
It's a response to Governor Pat Quinn's plan to cut spending by closing prisons, halfway houses and mental institutions. The vote yesterday was 29-23, but the measure needed 30 votes to pass. Supporters say the Legislature should have a bigger role in decisions that can mean economic ruin for workers and communities. But opponents say it would be a mistake to tie the governor's hands when the state budget is in crisis.
