Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner is set to close state museums and a sport-shooting complex to the public because of the budget crisis. But most staff will still report to work.
The Illinois State Museum in Springfield and four satellite locations -- along with the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta -- will close today.
Rauner's office initially sent layoff notices to more than 100 workers at those sites in an effort to save about $5 million. But unions sued, saying the layoffs violated their contract.
Rauner's office agreed to postpone the layoffs pending a court decision. A Rauner spokeswoman says some museum workers will continue regular duties. Others will be given “temporary roles.”
Museum board Chairman Guerry Suggs says the situation “doesn't make any sense.”
