SPRINGFIELD - It might be weeks - or longer - until lawmakers and Gov. Pat Quinn find an even temporary solution to the state's money troubles.

But lawmakers have been getting phone calls at their district offices for weeks from people who depend on state support. With the state's fiscal year ending Tuesday night, people who need state support to take care of seniors and the disabled fear for their jobs.

Still, rank-and-file lawmakers remain at odds. Not enough of them support an income tax hike Quinn wants to fill the state's deep deficit, but few want the drastically cut services that would come with massive budget cuts.

On Wednesday, Quinn vetoed a spending plan that could have cut services back significantly. "We will not relax in our battle to have a balanced budget," he said.

That means lawmakers will have to return to Springfield this month to either override Quinn or come up with something completely different.

Despite the uncertainty, lawmakers have to keep informed those who depend on state money.

Whether those reforms get a vote, though, is up to Democrats who control Illinois government.

State Rep. Bob Flider, D-Mount Zion, spent Wednesday visiting with some social service providers in Macon County, trying to explain the situation to them.

He said Quinn's decision to warn the agencies that no state money would be available was an unfortunate development.

"I just don't think its necessary," Flider said. "It's created a crisis, and its becoming unmanageable."

Quinn continues to push for an income tax hike, but Republicans say they'll withhold support until the state reforms some of its programs. They say that without major changes, the money created by a tax increase eventually will be useless as costs in government rise.

"Until these spending limitations are in effect, a tax increase won't solve any problems," said state Rep. Bill Mitchell, R-Forsyth.

State Sen. Kyle McCarter, R-Lebanon, said he hoped lawmakers would work through the week until they agreed to a solution. Instead, they're scheduled to begin session again July 14.

"I don't think we need to worry about the blame," McCarter said. "We'll deal with that in the next election."

The state entered its new budget year without a spending plan in place for the third straight year.

"The names on the doors have changed, but it seems like what goes on behind the doors hasn't changed at all," said state Sen. Dale Righter, R-Mattoon.

mike.riopell@lee.net|789-0865