SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) — Illinois Senate members have approved a measure that would reopen the state museum and use donations to pay for needed repairs to state fairgrounds.

GOP Gov. Bruce Rauner closed the Illinois State Museum in Springfield and its satellite sites in October due to the state budget impasse.

Bill sponsor Democratic Sen. Andy Manar said Monday there are concerns the institution could lose its accreditation if it doesn’t reopen. The plan would allow the museum to charge admission fees.

The Senate approved the measure 38-18, sending it to the House.

Republican lawmakers say they agree the fairgrounds in Springfield and DuQuoin are in need of repairs. But they opposed the plan because it requires work done with private donations to be subject to state purchasing rules.

 

 

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