Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is presenting a jobs and economic growth plan that includes a phased-in minimum wage of 25 cents annually for seven years.
The Winnetka Republican delivered his State of the State address Wednesday before lawmakers in Springfield.
Part of his plan includes raising the state's $8.25 minimum wage to $10 an hour over the next seven years. The issue has been discussed widely in Illinois, especially during in the 2014 race for governor. Rauner was criticized for changing his stance at the time.
He tells lawmakers that raising the wage in conjunction with other reforms will help make Illinois more competitive.
Rauner also wants workers' compensation reform, lawsuit reforms, changes to unemployment insurance and diversity guidelines for unions that contract with the state. Rauner is also calling for a two-year freeze of property taxes. Prior to his address, Rauner released a copy of his policy agenda. The two page overview focuses on three areas: Economic Growth and Jobs, Student and Career Success, and Taxpayer Empowerment and Government Reform.
Here is the text of Governor Bruce Rauner's State of the State Address as presented Wednesday before the Illinois General Assembly.