Illinois Senate approves stop-gap spending measure

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - The Illinois Senate has sent legislation to Gov. Bruce Rauner that frees up billions of dollars for local governments.

There was little discussion Monday on the measure before a 53-0 vote in favor of it. Republican Rauner supports the measure - a rare compromise in a year where there's still no budget agreement six months into the fiscal year.

The thrust of the bill is to release tax revenue on motor fuel, cellphone calls and more for local governments. There's state funding to help low-income residents pay heating bills and to keep domestic violence shelters open.

The legislation swept through the House last week after Rauner compromised with Democrats. He emphasized that he secured public-safety measures but there's also money to keep his state agencies operating.

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The bill is SB2039

Online: http://www.ilga.gov