SPRINGFIELD - Gov. Pat Quinn would downsize but not close state prisons as part of his latest plan to cut $1 billion in state spending.

The governor is calling for the reduction of at least 1,000 workers at the Illinois Department of Corrections.

An outline of the cuts distributed by the governor's staff Tuesday doesn't offer details on how the downsizing would work.

But, he appears to be not following the lead of his predecessor, Rod Blagojevich, who attempted but failed to close prisons as a way to save money during his tumultuous tenure.

The move comes as the state continues to grapple with rising overtime costs at prisons because of understaffing.

In addition to proposed cuts at prisons, the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice would be cut by 105 positions. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources would see 67 layoffs, while the Illinois State Police would lose 303 workers.

Quinn says the cuts would have to be made regardless of whether lawmakers approve an income tax increase. The state began its new fiscal year today without a budget in place.

In all, Quinn estimates the state work force would be reduced by about 2,200 workers. Remaining employees would be forced to take 12 furlough days.

kurt.erickson@lee.net|789-0865