State Sen. Jason Barickman has concerns about the nearly $2 billion spending bill to help fund local government services. The Republican voice for east-central Illinois says the bill falls short .....

"This is problematic in that the legislature needs to pass a comprehensive budget that lives within its means," Barickman said. "We missed the opportunity to do that by our own deadline which was May 31, so we are kind of limping along."

The Illinois House easily passed a bill on Wednesday to fund roads, veterans homes, energy assistance, and lottery prizes. Barickman said he expects the Illinois Senate to pass it on Monday. Gov. Bruce Rauner has indicated he would sign it.

Illinois is now in the sixth month without a budget.

94.1 WGFA