THE ILLINOIZE: Will the Senate go along with House Chicago School Board plan?...What to expect when you're expecting a legislative session?...Why the Biden ballot challenge is "foolish"

January 16, 2024

Good morning, Illinois.

Happy first day of the spring legislative session to those who celebrate. We’re headed to Springfield first thing.

I forgot to mention this yesterday, but House Democrats have hired a new budget director. Endra C. Curry comes from the South Carolina legislature, where she was the nonpartisan Director of Fiscal Policy. She replaces Mark Jarmer.

The Senate is in at noon. The House is in at 2. There is nothing on the Governor’s public schedule.

There are 63 days to the March 19 primary and 129 days until the scheduled May 24 spring legislative session adjournment date. The general election is 294 days away.

Let me know what’s on your mind. Drop us a note anytime at patrick@theillinoize.com.

Let’s get to it.

WILL SENATE FOLD ON CHICAGO SCHOOL BOARD BILL?

When lawmakers left Springfield at the conclusion of the fall veto session, the House and Senate seemed miles apart addressing the makeup of a new elected Chicago School Board.

As lawmakers return to the Capitol Thursday, there are signs the Senate could be moving toward adopting the House version of the plan, but there has been little communication between the two sides, we’re told.