Quinn Cuts Stroger Veto Power

Makes it easier for commissioners to override board president

Cook County Board President Todd Stroger's veto stamp has gone out of style.

Gov. Pat Quinn has decided it's time change a law that enables Cook County commissioners to override his repeatedly-used veto power to stop a much-maligned sales tax increase.  

A spokesman for Quinn said the governor would sign the measure Saturday.
 
Once signed, commissioners will only need 11 votes instead of 14 to override a veto. Previously, it needed four-fifths approval from the board of 17.   

The bill has been sitting on Quinn's desk since their fall veto session. Stroger has opposed the measure all along, saying it protects jobs and prevents budget cuts.

With fewer votes needed to overrule him, commissioners are likely to undo the tax increase.

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