With just hours left in the legislative session, Illinois lawmakers are focused on finalizing a $56 billion state budget. The proposed budget includes plans to address significant pension shortfalls, raise new taxes on prediction markets and cryptocurrencies, and potentially reduce the gas tax. GOP legislators are voicing concerns about transparency and calling for increased local funding. As discussions progress, there are warnings that essential programs and safety-net hospitals may face cuts, while budget talks grapple with looming threats of tax hikes. Overall, the budget process has become a battleground for both parties as they race to meet the deadline.