ILL-inois: Big ticket lottery winners can't collect until state approves budget

A majority of Illinois voters chose change over the status quo when chose Republican reformer Bruce Rauner to be their next governor over inept Chicago Democrat Pat Quinn.

But because of the scientifically gerrymandered legislative districts created by state Democratic Party boss--and state House Speake--Michael Madigan, the Dems kept their supermajorities in both chambers of the General Assembly.

It's time for Madigan to bow to the will of the people and accept Rauner's budget proposals. Meanwhile, Illinois continues to be a national laughing stock.

From ABC 7 Chicago:

Until a state budget is approved, the Illinois Lottery said the state comptroller can't pay out lottery winnings of more than $25,000.

However, the money will be paid eventually, lottery officials said.

"That sounds like you don't know when you're going to pay me," said Allison Weaver, who plays the lottery. "That's what that sounds like. I don't like maybe, eventually."

"I want the money," said Jazz Meghji, a lottery player. "If it's my time to win, it's my time to win, and I want it immediately."

All this as a federal judge threatens the state with contempt of court for missing mandated deadlines to pay social service providers. With grant money drying up, tens of thousands of college students are now on the hook for their tuition.