Quinn files to appeal on lawmaker pay to state Supreme Court

Gov. Pat Quinn has asked the Illinois Supreme Court to hear his appeal of a ruling that his veto of money for lawmaker salaries was unconstitutional.

Attorneys for Quinn filed a motion with the court Wednesday. They say the case deserves an “expeditious and conclusive” ruling by the state’s highest court.

Quinn vetoed money for paychecks in July because he was angry legislators hadn’t addressed Illinois’ nearly $100 billion pension crisis.

House Speaker Michael Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton sued, saying his action was unconstitutional.

Last week, a Cook County judge agreed and ordered the state to immediately pay lawmakers.

Quinn argues he had the authority to slash the money from the budget. He also says he’s not collecting a check until the legislature approves a pension fix.