October 7, 2008/bc

SPRINGFIELD, IL – State Sen. Dave Syverson (R-Rockford) is pleased the Senate’s Chicago leadership has buckled to public pressure, and sent Gov. Rod Blagojevich two bills aimed at saving 11 endangered state parks, and the jobs of hundreds of family and human service providers.

The paperwork for the legislation – Senate Bills 1103 and 790, had sat on Senate President Emil Jones’ desk for 13 days before they were finally sent to the Governor for his approval. Blagojevich now has 60 days to sign or veto the measures.

“Once again, public pressure forced Emil Jones and his leadership team to release these bills,” Syverson said, noting many lawmakers had feared the Senate President was prepared to aid the Governor, his longtime ally, by blocking the paperwork for the measures. “Now our focus must return to the Governor. We must make our voices heard loud and clear that these parks and service providers are too important to play games with.”

Syverson encouraged the public to contact the Governor’s Office by calling 312-814-2121, or emailing it at governor@state.il.us.