Gov. Quinn announces moneysaving moves

SPRINGFIELD -- Facing what could be a $9 billion budget deficit, new Gov. Pat Quinn has announced a series of cost-saving measures.

Quinn's office announced Tuesday plans to cut spending by an additional 1 percent, leave nonessential vacant jobs unfilled, delay major purchases and limit travel.

Quinn estimates the cost-saving measures will save "hundreds of millions" of dollars but he isn't providing an exact number. Other details about where and how the cuts would be made weren't immediately provided.

The changes go into effect immediately for state agencies. The state also plans to limit its use of outside contractors.

Quinn says the increased belt-tightening is needed as the state tries to deal with its financial crisis.