Gov. Pat Quinn says lawmakers should have plenty of time to deal with pension reform and other major issues during a shortened lame duck session.
Legislators are scheduled to return to Springfield next week. Quinn has said he wants them to approve a fix for the state's estimated $95 billion pension crisis before new lawmakers are sworn in Jan. 9. Other issues that could be on the agenda are a gambling expansion, allowing gay marriage and a bill to let illegal immigrants have driver's licenses.
Legislative leaders in the House and Senate have canceled some of the days lawmakers had been scheduled to meet.
Speaking at an unrelated event Tuesday, Quinn said he talked with the leaders Monday and believes there will still be ``ample time'' to get things done.
