IL State News
5 months ago
Safe Gun Storage Act heads to governor’s desk amid heated debate

A controversial gun safety bill is one step away from becoming law in Illinois. Senate Bill 8, known as the Safe Gun Storage Act, passed the House 69-40 and is now on its way to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk for final approval.

Crime
5 months ago
Prosecutors seek 12½-year prison sentence for ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan

Federal prosecutors are recommending a 12½-year prison sentence and $1.5 million fine for former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, portraying him as a “grand master of corruption” who misused public office for private gain over the course of a decade.

IL State News
5 months ago
Illinois legislature pushs through $55.2 billion budget with new taxes, limited cuts

With just hours to spare before the end of the legislative session, Illinois Democrats muscled through a $55.2 billion state budget late Saturday night, drawing swift criticism from Republicans for raising taxes and offering little time for public scrutiny.

IL State News
5 months ago
Illinois lawmakers pass smaller Medicaid package amid budget pressures and federal uncertainty

In a late-session flurry on Saturday night, Illinois lawmakers approved one of the narrowest Medicaid omnibus packages in recent memory, citing budget constraints and growing uncertainty around federal funding.

Business
5 months ago
Illinois Senate passes Prescription Drug Affordability Act to rein in PBMs, aid small pharmacies

The Illinois Senate passed sweeping legislation aimed at lowering prescription drug costs and boosting support for independent pharmacies. The Prescription Drug Affordability Act, contained in House Bill 1697, now returns to the House for final approval.

IL State News
5 months ago
Pritzker vows to veto budget with broad tax hikes as lawmakers try to close $300M gap

With the July 1 deadline looming, Governor J.B. Pritzker on Wednesday drew a firm line in Illinois’ tense budget negotiations, declaring he will veto any spending plan that includes broad tax hikes on individuals, corporations, or sales.

IL State News
5 months ago
Illinois iLottery player wins $1.67 million in FastPlay Jackpot

One lucky Illinois iLottery player is now over $1.67 million richer after hitting the Ultimate Diamond Jackpot, a FastPlay progressive game offered by the Illinois Lottery.

IL State News
5 months ago
Black bear spotted moving through southwestern Illinois, IDNR confirms

A black bear has been confirmed moving through southwestern Illinois, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) announced last week. While large predators such as black bears, wolves, and cougars are rare in Illinois, occasional sightings occur as these animals sometimes cross state borders.

IL State News
5 months ago
Anna’s Law nears approval, aims to reform police sexual assault response in Illinois

Illinois lawmakers have unanimously passed Anna’s Law, a bill that would require all police officers to undergo trauma-informed sexual assault training before taking their oath—and repeat it every three years. The legislation now awaits the governor’s signature.

Business
5 months ago
Illinois welcomes 20 new small businesses to Illinois Made Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), through its Office of Tourism, has announced the addition of 20 new small businesses to the prestigious Illinois Made program, celebrating the artisans, creators, and entrepreneurs whose work embodies the spirit and cultural richness of the state.