Illinois leaders reach $50B budget deal with pension reform overdue.

Illinois Democrats have filed a state budget bill worth over $50 billion, which includes $250 million for early education, $506 million for K-12 funding, and $100 million for public universities. The budget also includes $200 million for additional pension payments, $400 million for economic development, and $18 million for reproductive health initiatives. The bill was filed five days after the deadline, and the Illinois Senate adjourned without taking it up, stretching budget voting into the weekend and perhaps beyond. The budget must pass both chambers and be signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker before the new fiscal year begins on July 1.