SWA Voting Update

• Ashleigh Johnson
• May 20, 2008

With budget matters occupying a good deal of time for Democrats in the Illinois House of Representatives, the reinstatement of the Structural Work Act has not yet been brought to a vote. The deadline for the bill to pass the House and go to the Senate is currently May 23, but that deadline could be moved again. The legislative session is scheduled to end May 30.

The Builders Association's lobbyist met this week with the SWA's sponsor, Representative John A. Fritchey (D-Chicago), who stated that he may call a vote on the bill.

Your communications with legislators has made and will continue to make a difference. Thanks go out to members who have already contacted legislators by using the talking points, tips and sample messages on the Government section of our website. There's still time to let your legislator know how the SWA would hurt your business.

The House Democratic Caucus this week briefed lobbyists on close to 300 appropriation bills they intend to pass out of committee en route to a final budget. While capital programs included in the budget isn't as aggressive as the plan proposed by Illinois Works, it does allow for $800 million more in spending - most of that earmarked for pension plans and union contracts.

Illinois Works will host a conference call tomorrow for those interested in supporting a larger capital improvement plan or those who want updates. The call begins at noon. Call 1-877-807-5706 and use passcode 975165.