Blagojevich plans summer jobs program

Gov. Rod Blagojevich says it will cost $14 million to provide up to 10,000 summer jobs for 13- to 22-year-olds around the state.

Blagojevich says it's with "great enthusiasm" that he'll keep the money for the program in a state budget he has threatened to cut by $1.5 billion unless lawmakers find more funds.

The Summer Youth Works program starts in July and jobs run about eight weeks.

The governor's office says the youngest workers will earn a $250 stipend while older workers between 19 and 22 will earn $10 an hour and work 25 hours a week.

Participants will work with community providers throughout the state.

Young people looking for summer jobs can all 1-800-843-6154 for information.