Dupage Policy Journal

State Rep. Ron Sandack (R-Dist. 81) accused House Democrats of engaging in what he termed “gotcha politics" after they tried to override a vote of SB 570 in spite of the fact that a bipartisan deal had just been reached on the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) bill.

“When the Rauner administration and a coalition of bipartisan legislators forged a deal over the weekend to bring CCAP eligibility thresholds almost back to their original levels, SB 570 became an unnecessary bill,” Sandack said. “Speaker (Michael) Madigan (D-Dist. 22) continues to turn his back on compromise and bipartisanship, even though in this case, we had a reasonable meeting of the minds.”

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner used emergency powers earlier this year to adjust the CCAP eligibility threshold in an effort to address the growing financial crisis. Unhappy with that move, Democrats added language to SB 570 to reverse Rauner’s move and remove his ability to make such a decision in the future.

Realizing the potential number of Illinois families that would have been disqualified from receiving state-funded child care, a small bipartisan contingent began developing a compromise.

Sandack’s efforts were effective, as the vote failed to receive the required 71 votes, falling one vote shy at 70-35-4.

“The compromise between the Rauner administration and House Republican and Democrat lawmakers again demonstrates our governor’s desire to act in good faith on important issues that affect Illinoisans,” Sandack said. “We had a refreshing example of bipartisanship, but unfortunately, Speaker Madigan and his most loyal followers showed yet again that they have no interest in bipartisanship or compromise.”