Measure that prevents layoffs is signed into law

[December 21, 2011]  CHICAGO (AP) -- Gov. Pat Quinn has signed into law a bill that reallocates money in the budget to avoid closing seven state facilities and 1,900 layoffs.

Quinn signed the measure Monday in Chicago.

State officials tinkered with the state budget to come up with the extra money. They also shuffled money around to come up with more cash for substance abuse services and community mental health programs.

Earlier this year, Quinn said Illinois needed to close seven centers, including a prison and centers for the developmentally disabled and mentally ill. The closures would have resulted in nearly 2,000 layoffs.

Some extra money is available because Quinn used his veto powers earlier this year to cut $89 million that helps schools pay for transporting their students.

The law goes into effect immediately.

[Associated Press]

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