State of the State

Gov. Pat Quinn is telling lawmakers that they hold the solution to solving the state's fiscal crisis, particularly Illinois' worst-in-the-nation pension problem.

The Chicago Democrat says it's hard but not impossible.

He spoke to lawmakers during his annual State of the State address on Wednesday.

Quinn put his support behind Senate Bill 1, which was measure introduced last month. It includes parts of a Senate-approved measure along with the increased contributions and reduced benefits in the bill that failed to get a House vote. It's sponsored by Senate President John Cullerton.

Illinois has nearly $100 billion in unfunded liability and Quinn called it the "toughest of issues" in the state.

However, he only made scattered references throughout his speech to the problem.

Here is a list of the highlight's from Gov. Quinn's address:

Here is a list of highlights:

—Proposes raising Illinois' minimum wage from $8.25 to $10 an hour.

—Urges lawmakers to solve state's nearly $100 billion, worst-in-the-nation pension problem. Puts his support behind Senate Bill 1, a hybrid of previous bills, sponsored by Senate President John Cullerton.

—Proposes that Illinois lawmakers recuse themselves from taking a vote or other official action if there's a conflict of interest. Proposal would also prevent lawmakers from representing a person or corporation where there's a financial or personal conflict of interest.

—Signs executive order designed to help military veterans get jobs. The order calls for state agencies to streamline the process for veterans applying for job licenses.

—Reiterates call for assault weapons ban in Illinois and a ban on high-capacity ammunition magazines.

—Says it's time for Illinois to allow gay marriage. A Senate committee has approved legislation allowing same-sex marriage. Backers of the measure say a Senate vote could come as early as next Thursday, which is Valentine's Day.

—Wants online voter registration and open primary elections where voters don't have to declare a political party before casting a ballot.