Legislation to raise electric rates to help pay to modernize the state's power grid is on its way to Gov. Pat Quinn, who has repeatedly promised to veto it because of the burden it places on consumers.
The bill's sponsors predicted Monday they could find enough votes to override Quinn if he follows through with his threat. The bill was sent to the governor Monday, nearly three months after lawmakers passed it. Illinois Senate President John Cullerton used a legislative move to hold the bill to try to avoid an immediate veto from Quinn.
The energy bill would raise electric rates as part of a $3 billion plan to give Commonwealth Edison and Ameren money for basic infrastructure and a modern Smart Grid to monitor energy and reduce waste.