State of the State highlights

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Created: Wednesday, February 1, 2012 1:52 p.m. CDT

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SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn delivered his State of the State address on Wednesday. Here are highlights:

• UTILITY TAX: Proposed eliminating natural gas utility tax, calling it "unfair, regressive."

• FAMILIES: Proposed establishing Child Tax Credit for parents raising children; would provide $100 relief for family of four.

• VETERANS: Proposed Hiring Veterans Tax Credit for employers who employ returning veterans.

• EDUCATION: Set goal of higher education for 60 percent of Illinois adults by 2025; now 43 percent.

• EXPORTS: Illinois exports have risen 30 percent; Navistar CEO Dan Ustian will lead new Export Advisory Council with goal of doubling exports by 2014.

• HOUSING: Announced Illinois Foreclosure Prevention Network.

• TECHNOLOGY: Announced $2.3 million for new technology center at Merchandise Mart in Chicago for digital start-ups; $6 million statewide competition to build ultra-high speed broadband in Illinois neighborhoods.

• GREEN: Illinois has more than 400 wind turbines, and is working with universities to develop energy efficient batteries.