By Adam Studzinski

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. Bruce Rauner spoke in Springfield Monday morning about the need to pass a stopgap budget and education funding by the end of the month.

Legislators are scheduled to be in session on Wednesday. Rauner said it appears they’re close to finding a stopgap budget deal.

“The supermajority has asked for more spending than what I think is appropriate. We do not want to put spending that causes more unpaid bills, and that is unaffordable, and would force a big tax hike on the people of Illinois next winter,” said Rauner. “But I we can work out a compromise and we’re pretty well there.”

Rauner added lawmakers should be done with a school funding bill, but the House Speaker and Senate President have asked to a change to the funding formula, and more money for Chicago Public Schools.

“They’ve basically threatened to hold up the entire funding process, and the budget process, for a bailout of CPS,” said Rauner. “Let me be clear, that is wrong. That is unfair. That’s just not reasonable for the children around the State of Illinois.”

Rauner requested a four leaders meeting for Tuesday. He hoped they can find some common ground and then be as productive as possible when lawmakers meet Wednesday.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].