The clock is ticking as state leaders face a dilemma in how to replace Illinois Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka in her current and future terms.
Topinka died unexpectedly on Wednesday from complications of a stroke. She was to have started a new term in January.
Comptroller's office spokesman Brad Hahn says the office is still processing checks to schools and state agencies that the Riverside Republican approved before her death. But he says operations can continue only for ``several'' days. A new comptroller must be named to approve future payments.
Gov. Pat Quinn has not indicated when he would name a replacement. The attorney general's office says it is working to interpret the state Constitution on the proper replacement process.
