
CHICAGO Governor Rod Blagojevich says he wants to spend $150 million on programs to curb youth violence after a recent spate of shootings in Chicago. Blagojevich’s proposal includes spending $30 million to provide summer jobs for young people statewide. He’s also proposing another $20 million for grants to community providers to provide after-school and other programs. And he wants to invest $100 million to revitalize neighborhoods, support local businesses that create jobs and help police departments buy equipment. Blagojevich has a news conference scheduled for later Tuesday morning in Chicago to discuss his plan. He says the money would be part of his proposed statewide construction program. (AP)
______ Copyright 2008 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.