MOLINE, Illinois - While lawmakers are to blame for not meeting the deadline for a state budget, it's Illinois taxpayers who are being billed for the mess.
The Chicago Tribune estimates the 2017 special session in Springfield will cost an extra $50,000 a day in per diems and gas allowances for lawmakers.
"They shouldn't be getting a paycheck until it's settled," said John McCarrell of East Moline while on a grocery shopping trip with his wife and grandkids Friday.
"It's a big club. Government, it's a big club. I'm embarrassed by it, I really am," he said.
Lawmakers are paid a base salary of $67,836 per year, and many receive bonuses for committee and leadership positions.
In addition, they receive $111 a day in per diems and 39 cents per mile for travel.
In theory, the 10-day special session could cost taxpayers up to half-a-million dollars.
"Wow. We're retired and we know a lot of people who are moving out, they are just disgusted with Illinois," said Ann McCarrell, a retired nurse from East Moline.
"I think it's sad. It's our money," she said.