Illinois Republicans call Quinn's address 'unrealistic'
SPRINGFIELD — State Republicans say Gov. Pat Quinn's State of the State address was unrealistic and fails to address major issues like pension reform and restructuring Medicaid.
Quinn spoke Wednesday in Springfield. The Democrat says economic growth and job creation are keys to helping the state's finances.
He proposed eliminating the state natural gas utility tax, increasing the percentage of Illinoisans with higher education and instituting tax credits for veterans and families.
But House Minority Leader Tom Cross and Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno (rah-DOH'-nyoh) say the primary focus should be the budget and getting spending under control.
The Republican leaders estimate it will cost the state $500 million to do everything Quinn outlined in the speech.
Cross says the speech should have addressed workers compensation reform.