The State Legislature has been all blades to the grindstone since reconvening in Springfield. It looks like they're on the verge of passing two major changes once the Senate reconvenes next week. First, Gov. Quinn and General Assembly leaders reached a deal on an increase in the state income tax by up to 75 percent and an increase on the cigarette tax of $1 per pack. But the more historic vote was the state House's vote to abolish the death penalty. The vote comes a decade after then-Gov. George Ryan placed a moratorium on the death penalty in Illinois; 20 men on Illinois' Death Row have been exonerated. more ›

State lawmakers will begin their six day veto session before the Thanksgiving recess today. The Illinois Legislature will have its hands full for the next few days, with votes scheduled for some hot ticket items. more ›

Lawmakers return to the Illinois Capitol today for the fall veto session. The session, slated to last three days this week and three next, will focus on money for cash strapped college students and stronger ethics laws. more ›