Cullerton Urges House Vote on Pension Plan

Illinois Senate President John Cullerton is urging a House vote on his pension-reform plan even though Speaker Michael Madigan has his own proposal.

Cullerton told The Associated Press Wednesday he believes House members want to vote on his measure to close a $97 billion debt in the pension systems.

 House members say the Cullerton legislation doesn't save enough money. Cullerton says it can survive a court challenge.

Madigan moved his plan to the Senate. Cullerton says there isn't enough support to pass it there.

Cullerton points out his legislation got 40 votes in the Senate - an extraordinary majority - while Madigan's plan got just two more than the 60 votes needed to pass the House.