Pension reform is likely to be the dominant issue when Governor Pat Quinn takes the podium this week for his annual State of the State speech.
Lawmakers are not expecting an upbeat speech from the governor, because of the unresolved pension crisis and its drag on the rest of the state budget.
Quinn is also expected to talk about his desire to see lawmakers pass an assault weapons ban.
970 WMAY will bring you the governor's speech live; coverage begins at noon Wednesday from the Capitol.