Illinois businesses backs Rauner's pro-jobs proposals

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - Business organizations back Gov. Bruce Rauner's plans for increasing job competitiveness in Illinois.

But they say they are concerned about his proposal to hike the minimum wage by 25 cents a year over seven years.

The Republican proposed a list of reforms to improve the state's business climate in Wednesday's State of the State address. They include workers' compensation and medical malpractice reform, making unemployment insurance fair and creating zones where local voters decide whether a worker should be forced to join a union or pay dues.

Illinois Retail Merchants Association CEO Rob Karr says the agenda shows a desire to make Illinois an economic leader again. Kim Clarke Maisch (MYESH') of the National Federation of Independent Business says Rauner's plan will reduce business costs.