By AP/KWMU
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich has sued the speaker of the Illinois House over in a months-long battle over the state budget.
Blagojevich is angry that Speaker Michael Madigan has defied his proclamations requiring the Legislature to meet in special session.
In some cases, Madigan has told lawmakers not to bother showing up. He has also convened sessions at different times of day than Blagojevich had ordered.
Blagojevich announced Monday that he filed suit against his fellow Democrat last week in Sangamon County court.
He wants Madigan to hold sessions at specific times and require members to attend. A state budget has passed, but Blagojevich says other related issues still require attention.
Legislators argue the special sessions are just for show. They note the governor usually doesn't submit proposals for lawmakers to consider.