Springfield, Ill. – The potential sale of a state prison to the federal government continued to raise questions and concerns during the week, State Senator Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) said. Also, an investigation by a Chicago newspaper revealed that many persons hired from a Blagojevich-era “clout list” remain on the state payroll, despite Governor Quinn’s pledges to “fumigate state government.”
And, as the holiday season approaches, the Illinois Attorney General has released a home safe shopping guide which is available online at www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov. The guide details toys and infant supplies that have been recalled for safety issues over the past year.
The hiring investigation by the Chicago Sun-Times revealed that at least 70 persons identified in subpoenas related to federal investigations into hiring practices under Blagojevich remain in state jobs under Governor Quinn – including many who were hired when state agencies circumvented military veterans hiring preferences.
Senator Righter said Governor Quinn’s refusal to address the Blagojevich appointees is seen as part of a larger problem. Senate Republicans have been frustrated because, although Blagojevich was impeached and removed from office in January, Quinn has left in place programs and policies enacted by Blagojevich. Even programs that led directly to Blagojevich’s impeachment have been untouched by Quinn and legislative Democrats.
The purchase of Thomson Correctional Center (TCC) as a facility to house federal prisoners, including detainees from GuantanamoBay, continues to drive debate amongst government officials and Illinois residents. Senator Rightersaid that Illinois needs to consider numerous factors before the state proceeds with any sale.
Senate Republicans say that more information needs to be provided, including facts addressing security concerns, confirmation on whether lawmakers should weigh-in on the sale, and a proposal outlining the sale of the facility and how proceeds from the sale of the prison would be used. Illinois still owes about $80 million on the prison.
Governor Quinn continues to insist that he can sell the facility by declaring it "surplus property." However, lawmakers say that could set a dangerous precedent that could apply to virtually every piece of state property. Other lawmakers believe that if the federal government offers to purchase Thomson, the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability must hold hearings on the potential facility closure, which is required by state law.
Senator Righter said that over the last several years, there have been numerous instances where the governor has announced a closure or change of a state correctional facility without legislative input or a proper review process.
