Republican state Rep. Dan Caulkins (Decatur) has had enough of the “magical thinking” he believes is responsible for Springfield’s dysfunction, the latest case in point being the automatic pay raises lawmakers just received as part of the new state budget.
Illinois lawmakers will now earn roughly $70,000 for what is essentially a part-time job requiring them to be in Springfield only 70 days out of the year. Among other perks, members also receive mileage reimbursements and per diem allowances.
Just like he’s done with his entire salary since arriving in Springfield, Caulkins said he plans to deposit the added funds in a special checking account to be dispersed to veterans, seniors and youth groups as part of his Outreach 101 program.
“So far this year, we’ve given out over $8,000 in grants and next week we’re going to give out another $6,000 or $7,000,” Caulkins said.
