The Illinois House approved a massive economic development bill Thursday evening. The legislation makes way for projects across Illinois from a fertilizer plant in Tuscola to remodeling the convention center in Rosemont. It also has what Governor Pat Quinn calls a "breakthrough" meant to advance the proposed third Chicago airport near Peotone.
Several Republicans objected to the last-minute appearance of the proposal, but sponsoring Representative John Bradley says it has something for everyone. The Marion Democrat sought to clear up any confusion about what his legislation was about.
"This is about economic development, it's about economic development, it's about economic development, it's about economic development, it's about the whole state, it's about a comprehensive program, it's about helping every area of the state, it's about economic development, it's about jobs, it's about jobs, it's about jobs; vote aye."
The House did just that, approving the measure on a vote of 81 to 35. Governor Quinn urged the Senate to follow suit and send the legislation to his desk.