Lawmakers face gambling, prisons, assault weapons

Lawmakers face gambling, prisons, assault weapons

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Associated Press

Story Created: Sun Nov 25, 2012 3:45 PM

Story Updated: Sun Nov 25, 2012 3:45 PM

SPRINGFIELD, Ill.— Illinois lawmakers could tackle high-profile issues beginning Tuesday in their six-day fall session.
   
They will decide whether to reject vetoes by Gov. Pat Quinn on issues such as expanded gambling, money to keep prisons open and a Quinn-designed assault-rifle band.
   
The Democrat rejected a plan to add five casinos. Legislative leaders hope to avoid a veto override and negotiate a deal with Quinn.
   
The Senate plans a vote to restore funding for state facilities Quinn wants shuttered. That wouldn't force Quinn to keep prisons like those at Tamms and Dwight running, but prevent him from using the money elsewhere.
   
Quinn rewrote a bill in August to ban assault weapons after a mass shooting in Colorado. His office has not said whether he will push that.