An Illinois House committee has advanced a plan to devote $100 million in state funds to help bring President Barack Obama's presidential museum and library to Chicago.
The committee voted unanimously Thursday following a hearing in Chicago.
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel was among several officials who spoke in favor of the funding.
He says the money would return dividends "well beyond" $100 million. Emanuel also says the funding would be a fitting way to welcome Obama back to his hometown.
Several Chicago sites — most on the city's South Side — want to become home to the library and museum. Hawaii and New York also are vying for it.
A spokesman for House Speaker Michael Madigan says the Legislature still must determine a source for the funding.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
