Illinois Democrats remain divided over how to address the state’s financial crisis.

NPR Illinois and WDCB hosted an Illinois Issues Forum on the state budget and how it has impacted DuPage County on May 23.

Senate Democrats hold another set of votes on what was once referred to as the "grand bargain," but Republicans say the deal isn't there yet. Can anyone in Springfield trust anyone else long enough to make something happen? Meanwhile, Democratic gubernatorial candidate J.B. Pritzker is under attack by Republicans over his property taxes.

NPR Illinois hosted a forum on the state budget in Champaign on May 17. Community members attended to tell how they have been impacted by the state budget impasse. Panelists included Governor Jim Edgar, U of I President Tim Killeen, director of the U of I Institute of Government and Public Affairs Chris Mooney, and AARP Illinois President Rosanna Márquez. The forum was moderated by WILL Morning Edition host Brian Moline.

Illinois Senate Democrats on Wednesday passed part of a budget plan for state government. If it also passes the House and is signed into law, it would be the first real budget Illinois has had since 20-15. But that’s a big “if.”

Higher education has been among the areas feeling the state budget impasse as funding has been cut. It has forced some schools to reduce classes, lay off employees and, in some cases, close for several days. But a review of enrollment indicates small and mid-sized public universities are taking a double hit.

Both the Illinois House and Senate return to work in Springfield today. Just over two weeks remain before the annual legislative session is scheduled to end.

Commentary: The time has come to stop talking about a 'truly balanced budget' “Let’s get a truly balanced budget ... ” Gov. Bruce Rauner and his aides, in various venues on numerous occasions, 2015-present. Not to downplay the governor’s mantra, but what exactly is a “truly balanced budget?”

There was another setback Wednesday for efforts to end Illinois' budget stalemate. Senate Democrats attempted a series of test votes on items in the so-called “grand bargain.” But Republicans refused to go along, saying more negotiation is needed to reach a deal they can support.

A nonpartisan research group says Illinois’ desperate financial condition is getting even worse. The Civic Federation of Chicago says unless something is done soon, by next year the state’s pile of unpaid bills could consume half of all new tax revenue.