Facing sharp criticism over staff pay raises and battling a state budget crisis, Gov. Quinn today announced he would reduce the salaries of his staff and double their required furlough days.
“We must take continued actions to reduce state spending and strengthen the Illinois economy,” Quinn said in a statement e-mailed to reporters.
At the announcement, Quinn added: "We have to get thru a tough time ... I believe in practicing what I preach."
Quinn says the cutbacks are expected to save the state approximately $18 million in fiscal year 2011. The cuts impact 2700 employees, according to Quinn's office.
GOP candidate Bill Brady fired back an e-mail rejoinder.
“Today’s fourteen hundredths of one percent reduction out of a $13 billion-budget gap shows Governor Quinn protects big government at all costs, and only responds after pressure from taxpayers and the media," Brady said. "After Blagojevich-style pay hikes for cronies, his bizarre canoe czar, and secret criminal releases, this is yet another slap in the face of taxpayers. "
Quinn has faced siginificant criticism the last few days for quietly giving pay raises to several members of his staff. The raises were first revealed by the Associated Press.
