Due to the ongoing state budget impasse, the museum at Southern Illinois University Carbondale will close temporarily on July 1.
Interim Chancellor Brad Colwell says budget cuts have reduced the staff to just one person who will maintain the collections.
University officials plan to reopen the facility once a permanent state budget is approved. Colwell says that will allow the university to hire a new director and maintain the additional staff needed to keep the museum open.
He added the university remains committed to the future of the museum.
Governor Bruce Rauner says if lawmakers don't return to Springfield and approve a budget, he may have to call a special session.
The governor says talks are continuing...but thinks the House and Senate should be in town to try and reach a budget deal.
The state's fiscal year ends June 30th. Without a budget by then...the state's credit rating could hit junk bond status and schools may not open in the fall.