SPRINGFIELD - As lawmakers line up for billions more dollars for schools and roads, one group says getting the state's books in order should be a top priority.

The University of Illinois' Institute of Government and Public Affairs released its first report on issues facing state government last week. It includes criticisms that billions in pension debts and inherent tax problems are partly why the state faces significant budget problems.

"We need long-term solutions and not short-term Band-Aids," said director Robert Rich.

That wouldn't include more casinos, said Rich.

He says it'll take, among other things, an increase in the income or sales tax, a tough sell given Gov. Rod Blagojevich's pledge to not raise either.

State Sen. James Meeks, D-Chicago, has proposed raising income taxes to increase equity in school funding and give residents property tax relief. Also, he wants a sales tax leveled on services such as haircuts.

Similar school funding reform plans have sat on the table for decades, but lawmakers have yet to find a plan they like.

"We may agree or disagree, but nothing ever seems to get done," said state Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro.

Tuesday, Bost and state Rep. Lou Lang, D-Skokie, proposed amending the state constitution to eliminate all use of property taxes to fund schools.

Lang admits making that happen could be difficult. Constitutional amendments must be approved by lawmakers and voters, each with 60 percent in favor.

Still, Lang said eliminating schools' share of local taxes, which comprise a majority of their revenue, would create a scenario in which lawmakers would be forced to create reforms.

"Surely, that will jumpstart the debate," Lang said.

The debate over the budget won't begin until early March, and the discussion will likely include talk about the state's pension debt. Last week's report points out Illinois as having the deepest pension debt in the country.

Rich says that the billions sought for schools and transportation won't come without long-term fiscal fixes.

Mike Riopell can be reached at mike.riopell@lee.net or 789-0865.