SPRINGFIELD – Sen. Mark Kirk, still recovering from a major stroke, released a video Tuesday that calls for “decisive bipartisan action” to prevent further reductions in Illinois’ credit ratings.

The Republican senator did not spell out what action he thinks is necessary. State officials are deadlocked over how to lower pension costs, which are a major factor in the state’s declining credit ratings. As a federal official, Kirk has no formal role in fixing the state’s financial problems. His office said it’s important for such a high-ranking official to weigh in on critical state issues.

Kirk, who suffered a major stroke in January and is undergoing physical rehabilitation, appeared in two earlier videos updating the public on his recovery, but Tuesday’s was the first in which he discusses policy.