Quinn asks lawmakers to combine 2 pension plans

     CHICAGO (AP) – Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn is asking lawmakers to approve both rival plans on how to solve the state’s nearly $100 billion pension crisis. But it’s unclear if legislative leaders will agree.

      Quinn made the request Monday in a meeting in Chicago with House Speaker Michael Madigan and Senate President John Cullerton.

      The governor convened the meeting after the legislature adjourned May 31 without taking action on pensions. Madigan and Cullerton championed their own solutions, but neither passed.

      Quinn proposes that lawmakers vote on a bill that combines the two proposals at a June 19 special session. Madigan’s plan would be the primary plan and Cullerton’s would serve as a “back-up” in case Madigan’s is rejected by the courts.

      Madigan expressed concerns Monday that the Quinn proposal would be too complicated.