Unions disagree with gov's budget speech framework

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — A coalition of unions says Gov. Pat Quinn's budget address was an important nod at the pension problem but members disagree with how Quinn framed the issue.

Quinn called on lawmakers during his Wednesday speech to address pensions immediately. Quinn says the roughly $100 billion in unfunded liability puts the squeeze on other areas as officials try to catch up. Quinn says his proposed $400 million in education cuts are a direct result of lawmakers' inaction.

But the We Are On Illinois coalition says the actual cost of today's pensions are "negligible" compared to the cost of debt accrued by politicians who failed to fully fund retirement funds for years. The group includes teachers, state workers and nurses.

The coalition says it endorses Quinn's proposal to close corporate tax loopholes.