Statewide Update—Jan. 4, 2011

• Chicago Sun Times—CPS funds were spent on bug sweeps, booze, “The Chicago Public Schools’ inspector general is questioning more than $800,000 in spending under two former school board presidents — from $3,000 to check the board’s offices for “eavesdropping devices” to $12,624 for holiday parties at a president’s home.”

• State Journal-Register—Proposal would tie state spending to Illinois personal income, “The amendment’s sponsor, House Speaker Michael Madigan, D-Chicago, said it is only natural to tie any spending increases to personal income increases because much of the state’s revenue – income and sales taxes – is tied to how much its citizens earn.”

• The Southern—Gambling expansion on hold, “A vote on the expansion, which would add five new casinos and legalize slot machines at horse racing tracks, had been scheduled for a House committee Monday, but state Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, said more closed-door talks are needed.”

• State Journal-Register—New push starts for cigarette tax increase, “Anti-smoking groups renewed their push for a $1-a-pack increase in the state’s cigarette tax on Monday, pointing to research showing that the state would see $377 million in new revenue the first year of the tax increase.”

• Daily Herald—Lake County forest board eyeing land buy, “It would grow the preserve to about 315 acres.”

• (AP) State Journal-Register—Senate committee begins education reform hearings, “An Illinois Senate committee is hearing differing opinions on how to reform public education… A similar House committee has already conducted several hearings.”

• Southtown Star—Rich Central dean draws suspension, “The Rich Central High School dean who sparked controversy when she held a party where a photo of a former principal was burned in effigy was suspended and given a warning letter by Rich Township High School District 227 officials…”