The city of Springfield may formally ask the state of Illinois to start paying its utility bills.
The State Journal-Register reports the City Council next week plans to consider a resolution requesting Gov. Bruce Rauner and lawmakers designate utilities an "essential service."
The state owes City Water, Light and Power more than $9 million, including overdue bills totaling more than $6 million. State government has 90 separate accounts for utilities with the power company.
The hold up in payment is tied to the budget stalemate in Springfield.
Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and majority Democrats in the state Legislature have been deadlocked over a budget that should have taken effect July 1.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
