Many social services providers in Illinois are still struggling to make payroll because of the state's budget crisis, a new survey conducted by Illinois Collaboration on Youth found. According to respondents, late payments forced 49 percent to lay off staff, 53 percent to reduce service hours, and 41 percent to extend their waiting lists.

Thanks to revenue from a tobacco bond sale and a tax amnesty plan, the comptroller's office reports that it will be able to pay providers and schools for all services rendered during FY 2010 before an extended December 31 deadline. Since June 1, however, Illinois has accrued an additional $5.3 billion in unpaid bills for the current fiscal year.