Quinn's No. 2 calls for cuts to her own budget

SPRINGFIELD | Illinois' lieutenant governor won't fill three positions in her administration as part of an effort to pare her budget by 9 percent in the next budget year.

Sheila Simon said Saturday the reductions will result in a savings of about $200,000 in the fiscal year beginning July 1.

"With families across the state cutting back in these tough economic times, I want to do my part to make state government more efficient and will continue to work to save taxpayers money," Simon said in a statement.

Her announcement comes just days before her running mate, Gov. Pat Quinn, unveils a budget plan that is expected to reduce spending on a number of state programs.

A Simon spokeswoman said existing staffers will take on the duties of two secretaries and one program coordinator. In addition, her senior staff will voluntarily take four unpaid furlough days.

"Before we ask more from the people of Illinois, elected officials across the state should ask more of themselves," Simon said.

If accepted by lawmakers, Simon's budget will drop from about $2.1 million this year to $1.9 million next year.