The Governor and four legislative leaders meet this week to discuss the budget impasse.  Another budget meeting is expected to be held next week.  On Wednesday, the Illinois House approved Senate Bill 2039 to ensure municipalities have the funds necessary to buy and distribute road salt during the winter months. 

The bill also funds other public safety programs like 9-1-1 emergency telephone system and operations at Illinois veterans’ homes.  The majority of this money is collected from fees for the sole purpose of supporting these services.   This bill allows those dollars to be spent.  

Senate Bill 2039  also releases needed funds to pay utilities at state facilities; keep Chicago and statewide tourism programs running and provide support services for mental health and domestic violence shelters.