Cullerton will not call 'fumigation' bill

SPRINGFIELD -- Legislation that would have held the Illinois governor to his promise to "fumigate" state government is dead.

Senate President John Cullerton said Friday he will not call the bill forcing the firing of state employees hired by former Govs. Rod Blagojevich and George Ryan. He indicated concern about legal action over the bill.

Gov. Pat Quinn took office in January when Blagojevich was impeached and ejected. Quinn promised to get rid of employees tainted by their association with Ryan, who is in prison, or Blagojevich, who faces federal criminal charges.

Fellow Democrat Michael Madigan, the House speaker, was impatient with the pace of change and the legislation passed the House in May.

Democrat Cullerton says Quinn has made progress in changing government.