Daniel Hayes
Daniel Hayes is the Senior Editor of Illinois State News, responsible for the publication's daily editorial decisions, sourcing standards, and corrections.
Daniel Hayes oversees what Illinois State News covers and how that coverage gets done. That means deciding which stories the newsroom takes on, how reporting is sourced and verified, how AI-assisted research is reviewed before publication, and how corrections are handled when something gets it wrong. Every standard documented on the Editorial Standards page sits with him.
- 01The General Assembly and the Governor's office
- 02Illinois courts, including the state Supreme Court and federal courts in Illinois
- 03Public agencies, school districts, and municipal government
- 04Public safety, transportation, and education policy
- 05Statewide community and economic affairs
Every published story links to its primary sources so readers can verify the facts independently.
Quotes are checked against original transcripts, filings, or recordings before they run.
AI-assisted research is treated as a starting point, never as a substitute for verification.
Corrections are handled transparently, with the article timestamped on the date of any material update.
News tips, corrections, and editorial inquiries should go through the contact page. Tag your message with the appropriate topic so it routes correctly.
Editorial standards governing this newsroom are documented on our Editorial Standards page.
Aurora: Coroner Identifies Missing Woman Shafia Murad, Rules Drowning as Preliminary Cause of Death
The Kane County Coroner has identified the body found in an Aurora retention pond as Shafia Murad, 32, who was reported missing May 28. The preliminary cause of death is drowning, and police said no evidence of foul play was found.
June 4, 2026NapervilleNaperville: 9 Arrested, Dozens Cited as Police Crack Down on Teen Takeover Downtown
Naperville police arrested nine people and issued nearly three dozen citations during a teen takeover of downtown Naperville Monday night. Police Chief Jason Arres said the department is done issuing warnings.
June 4, 2026insuranceBloomington-Normal: Sharon Chung Votes No on Insurance Rate Caps as Pritzker Prepares to Sign Bills
Bloomington Rep. Sharon Chung voted against insurance rate review bills that give the state power to reject unfair auto and home insurance increases. The bills now go to Gov. Pritzker, who plans to sign them.
June 4, 2026student housingChampaign-Urbana: Core Spaces Plans 3,500 New Student Housing Beds Near Campus by 2031
Core Spaces will add more than 3,500 student housing beds to Champaign through three new developments by 2031, the largest expansion by the developer near the University of Illinois.
June 4, 2026PeoriaPeoria Woman Catherine Walker-Thomas Killed in Stabbing: Keonta Williams Arrested for First-Degree Murder
Catherine Walker-Thomas, 36, was killed in a stabbing on North Hightower Street in Peoria. Keonta J. Williams, 31, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder.
June 4, 2026RockfordRockford Mourns Firefighter John Morgan: Harlem-Roscoe Paramedic Dies on Duty at 53
Harlem-Roscoe Fire Department announces funeral services for Firefighter-Paramedic John Morgan, 53, who died of natural causes while on duty Sunday night in Loves Park.
June 4, 2026Susana MendozaSusana Mendoza Launches Chicago Mayoral Campaign, Calls Brandon Johnson’s Leadership a ‘Blizzard of Incompetence’
Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza officially launched her campaign for Chicago mayor on Wednesday, calling Mayor Brandon Johnson's leadership a 'blizzard of incompetence' and framing her campaign around financial, public safety, and confidence crises.
June 4, 2026ElginElgin Housing Authority Secures $1 Million City Funding for 72-Unit Affordable Housing Project in Batavia
The Housing Authority of Elgin's nonprofit arm secured $1 million in Batavia city funding for a $28 million, 72-unit affordable housing development. Construction is expected to begin in July.
June 4, 2026budgetWaukegan City Council Tables $281.7 Million Budget Vote, Putting $60 Million in Projects and Student Summer Jobs on Hold
Waukegan's City Council voted 6-3 to delay approval of a $281.7 million budget that would mark the city's first surplus in 33 years, putting $60 million in capital projects and student summer jobs on hold.
June 3, 2026DeKalbDeKalb Kitchen Fire Sends Resident to Hospital, Causes $35,000 in Damage
An unattended cooking appliance caused a kitchen fire in a DeKalb home on Market Street Tuesday, sending one person to the hospital and causing an estimated $35,000 in damage.
June 3, 2026downtown redevelopmentQuad Cities: Rock Island, Moline and East Moline Pour Millions Into Downtown Overhauls
Rock Island, Moline and East Moline are investing millions in downtown redevelopment projects fueled by federal grants, state incentives and local tax revenue. The work spans streetscapes, riverfronts and the regional airport.
June 3, 2026SIUCarbondale: SIU Researchers Name Three New Poison Dart Frog Species From the Amazon
SIU Carbondale researchers Jason Brown and BreAnn Geralds formally described three new poison dart frog species from the Amazon rainforests of Peru and Brazil, naming them after indigenous peoples of the region.
June 3, 2026DecaturDecatur: Appeals Court Overturns Kelly Nichols' Child Pornography Conviction After 6-Year Sentence
An Illinois appellate court overturned the child pornography conviction of Decatur mother Kelly Nichols, ruling the images of her daughters did not meet the legal definition of child pornography under state law. Nichols had been serving a six-year sentence.
June 3, 2026West Nile virusEvanston: First West Nile Virus Positive Mosquitos of 2026 Found in North Shore Traps
The North Shore Mosquito Abatement District confirmed the first West Nile virus positive mosquitoes of 2026 were found in an Evanston trap. Officials urge residents to take precautions as summer mosquito season begins.
June 3, 2026JolietJoliet Police Arrest Man With Knife After Tony's Fresh Market Employees Say He Brandished Weapon During Theft
Lester Gaines, 56, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault, unlawful use of a weapon, and retail theft after police say he brandished a knife at Tony's Fresh Market employees in Joliet.
June 3, 2026AuroraAurora: Body Found in Retention Pond During Search for Missing Woman Shafia Murad
Aurora police found a body in a retention pond Monday evening while searching for Shafia Murad, 32, who had been missing since May 28. The body has not yet been identified. An autopsy is scheduled Wednesday.
June 3, 2026napervilleNaperville Teen Takeover Ends in 9 Arrests and Nearly 3 Dozen Citations: 'No Second Chances'
Nine people were arrested and nearly three dozen citations were issued after hundreds gathered during a teen takeover in downtown Naperville on Monday. Police say they will offer no second chances to those who break the law.
June 3, 2026Bloomington TownshipBloomington Voters Put Data Center Ban, Grocery Tax Repeal, and Arms Sales Question on November Ballot
Over 200 Bloomington Township voters approved three non-binding November ballot questions: a data center moratorium (111-0), a 1% grocery tax repeal (107-4), and a ban on arms sales to dictatorships (94-15).
June 3, 2026Champaign Central High SchoolChampaign Central Alum Donates $41,000 Safety System to Prevent Shop Accidents He Witnessed as a Student
Champaign Central High School graduate Joel Danowitz donated a $41,000 safety system to his alma mater, using technology his company GRIT Automation developed after he witnessed a shop accident as a student in 1996.
June 3, 2026crimePeoria Man Dennis Walker Arrested for Impersonating Sheriff’s Deputy, Conducting Illegal Traffic Stop
Peoria man Dennis Walker, 43, was arrested Tuesday for impersonating a Peoria County Sheriff's deputy after conducting an illegal traffic stop. Investigators found fake police gear, weapons, and evidence of a prior Texas conviction for police impersonation.
June 3, 2026John MorganRockford Area Mourns John Morgan: Harlem-Roscoe Firefighter Dies at 53 While on Duty
Harlem-Roscoe Firefighter/Paramedic John Morgan, 53, died of cardiac complications while on duty. A procession of first responders escorted him through downtown Rockford as the community mourns.
June 2, 2026SpringfieldSpringfield Downtown Revitalization Bill Passes Senate, Dies in House as Session Ends
Senate Bill 2829, a plan to create a tourism authority and expand Springfield's medical district, passed the Senate 38-19 but died in the House as the legislative session ended Monday morning.
June 2, 2026Chicago BearsChicago Bears Crosses the Goal Line: Illinois Legislature Adjourns Without Stadium Bill, Leaving Decision to Summer
The Illinois House adjourned without voting on a Senate stadium bill, leaving the Chicago Bears to decide between Arlington Heights and Hammond, Indiana on their own summer timeline.
June 2, 2026infrastructureSouth Elgin Bridge Resurfacing to Cut Traffic to One Lane for Two Months Starting Monday
South Elgin's State Street bridge over the Fox River will be reduced to one lane starting Monday for a $686,900 resurfacing project expected to last through July.
June 2, 2026American Place CasinoWaukegan: $302 Million Permanent American Place Casino Breaks Ground Wednesday
Full House Resorts breaks ground Wednesday on a $302 million permanent American Place Casino in Waukegan. The Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired facility will be twice the size of the current temporary casino and is expected to open in approximately two years.
June 2, 2026crimeDeKalb Man Joshua Boyer Charged With Attempted Murder, Hate Crime After Machete Attack on Housemate
Joshua Boyer faces attempted murder, aggravated domestic battery, and hate crime charges after attacking a housemate with a machete over a money dispute in DeKalb, police said.
June 2, 2026Illinois budgetQuad Cities Lawmakers Back $56 Billion Illinois Budget as New Taxes Take Effect
Sen. Mike Halpin and Rep. Gregg Johnson voted with Democrats to pass Illinois' $56 billion budget, which includes new taxes on social media companies, a paused gas tax increase, and $70 million to backfill federal SNAP cuts.
June 2, 2026tornadoCarbondale: Jackson County to Simulate Major Tornado Disaster in June 9 Full-Scale Exercise
Jackson County emergency agencies will conduct a full-scale tornado response exercise on June 9 simulating a severe tornado striking southwestern Carbondale. The drill will test communication, shelter operations, and interagency coordination.
June 2, 2026DecaturDecatur Approves $4 Million for Road Repairs on Monroe, Cantrell, and William Streets
The Decatur City Council approved nearly $4 million in road improvement funding for North Monroe, East Cantrell, and East William Streets, adding to a $3 million package passed earlier this year.
June 2, 2026evanston policeEvanston Woman in Coma Since January Police Encounter: Family Files Federal Lawsuit Naming Six Officers, Demands $250,000
The family of Felicea Williams, 42, filed a federal lawsuit naming six Evanston police officers and the city, alleging excessive force during a January encounter that left Williams in a coma. The suit demands at least $250,000 in damages.
June 2, 2026Old Fashioned Pancake HouseJoliet’s Old Fashioned Pancake House Brings Back Dinner Service After Six-Year Hiatus
Joliet's Old Fashioned Pancake House, a family-run staple since 1988, is bringing back dinner service Monday after a six-year pandemic-era pause. New owners PZ and Despina Zografos are extending hours and expanding the menu.
June 2, 2026NapervilleNaperville Students Land the Black and Gold Bumblebee as Illinois’ Official State Bee
Naperville eighth-graders helped pass a bill making the black and gold bumblebee Illinois' official state bee. State lawmakers voted unanimously after students from 86 communities participated in a statewide survey.
June 1, 2026BloomingtonBloomington-Normal Common Council Takes Up Carless Kirkwood, $6.8 Million Land Deal, and Power Shift Over Mayor’s Bills
The Bloomington Common Council faces a June 3 session featuring a permanent seasonal closure of Kirkwood Avenue, a shifted stance on a $6.89 million convention center land deal, and a new rule requiring council sponsorship for mayoral legislation.
June 1, 2026ChampaignChampaign-Urbana: Teen Shot in Abdomen, Man Shot in Head in Separate Overnight Champaign Shootings
A 17-year-old boy was shot in the abdomen and a 36-year-old man was shot in the head in two separate overnight shootings in Champaign. Police have not located crime scenes and are asking the public for tips.
June 1, 2026Peoria SpeedwayPeoria Speedway to Close After June 11: End of an Era for West Peoria Dirt Track
Peoria Speedway in West Peoria announced it will close after the DirtCar Summer Nationals on June 11. Owner Brandon Dean has promoted the track for 13 years. The Central Illinois Flea Market says it will continue operating at the venue.
June 1, 2026mental healthRockford Hosts First Mental Health Met Gala to Break Stigma and Launch Scholarship
Rockford held its first Mental Health Met Gala on Saturday, organized by State of the Mind Institute to break stigma, connect residents with resources, and launch a new scholarship for future mental health advocates.
June 1, 2026Chicago BearsSpringfield Session Ends With Bears Stadium Bill Dying in the House
The Illinois House adjourned without voting on a Bears stadium bill that passed the Senate 37-17. The Chicago Bears stadium issue moves to summer negotiations after the Springfield legislative session ended.
June 1, 2026Chicago BearsChicago Bears Stadium Bill Dies in Illinois House as Legislature Adjourns Without Answer
The Illinois House adjourned without voting on a last-minute Chicago Bears stadium bill, leaving the franchise's future between Arlington Heights and Hammond, Indiana, unresolved.
June 1, 2026ElginElgin Councilman Demands Review of City Credit Card Spending After $232 in Uber Rides and $100 Baggage Fee Surface
Elgin City Councilman Anthony Ortiz is calling for a review of all council credit card spending after $232 in Uber rides and a $100 baggage fee surfaced in city bills. No written spending guidelines currently exist for elected officials.
June 1, 2026WaukeganWaukegan Residents Face Threatening 'ICE' and 'MAGA' Signs: Mayor Calls It 'Pure Hatred'
Threatening signs with ICE shark imagery and MAGA slogans have appeared throughout Waukegan and North Chicago, prompting police alerts and a condemnation from Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham.
June 1, 2026DeKalb CountyDeKalb County: Huntley Man Hospitalized After Falling Asleep, Crashing Truck Into Home
A Huntley man was hospitalized after allegedly falling asleep and crashing his truck into a DeKalb County home. No occupants inside the house were injured.
June 1, 2026property taxQuad Cities Homeowners Could Finally Recover Lost Equity After Illinois Passes Property Tax Foreclosure Reform
Illinois lawmakers passed House Bill 4537, ending the state's noncompliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling. Quad Cities homeowners who lose properties to tax foreclosure will now receive surplus equity, and all counties get extended redemption periods and payment plan options.
June 1, 2026SIUCarbondale: SIU Soccer Coach Graeme Orr Tries to Fund Team Through Youth Camps as World Cup Nears
SIU soccer head coach Graeme Orr is launching youth camps in Carbondale to fund the team, since Saluki home games are free to attend. The camps start June 1 and run through July.
June 1, 2026DecaturBody Found in Burned Decatur Home Sparks Multi-Agency Investigation
One person was found dead after a house fire at 468 S. Boyd Street in Decatur Saturday morning. Four agencies are investigating the cause of the blaze and the cause of death.
May 31, 2026data centersEvanston's Rep. Robyn Gabel Says Data Center Bill Failed This Session, But Fight Continues
Rep. Robyn Gabel, D-Evanston, says the POWER Act data center regulation bill missed the May 31 legislative deadline. The bill would have required developers to pay for renewable energy and sign community benefits agreements. At least 27 data centers have received $983 million in tax credits since 2019.
May 31, 2026jolietJoliet Residents Sue to Block $20 Billion Data Center, Alleging City Broke State Law
A lawsuit filed in Will County challenges the Joliet City Council’s approval of a massive data center campus, citing water shortages, power demands, and alleged violations of the Open Meetings Act.
May 31, 2026AuroraAurora’s First Clean Energy Graduates Walk as Mayor Laesch Chokes Up: ‘You Guys Are a Big Deal'
Aurora's first class of 16 clean energy graduates walked at the CEJA Workforce Development Hub as Mayor John Laesch, who lost his carpenter job in 2009 over an energy bill, called them "a big deal" for the city's green future.
May 31, 2026napervilleNaperville Police Warn of Zero Tolerance as 'Teen Takeover' Targets Downtown Monday
Naperville Police Department warns of zero tolerance for a planned 'teen takeover' in downtown Naperville on Monday, June 1, as the social media-fueled phenomenon that has already produced arrests, gunfire, and a loaded handgun in a 14-year-old's waistband heads into its third summer.
May 31, 2026Alexander's SteakhouseAlexander's Steakhouse in Normal Closes After More Than 40 Years: Final Day Is Today
Alexander's Steakhouse in Normal closes its doors today after more than 40 years. The Champaign location shut in 2022. The Peoria location remains open.
May 31, 2026University of IllinoisChampaign-Urbana: Highly Toxic Chemical Spilled at U of I’s Roger Adams Lab, Building Evacuated
A spill of 500 ml of acetic anhydride, a highly toxic and corrosive chemical, forced the evacuation of the Roger Adams Laboratory at the University of Illinois Saturday. Fire and hazmat crews contained the spill. No injuries were reported.
May 31, 2026PeoriaPeoria’s Cedar Street Bridge Closes June 1 for Months of Repairs, Adding to Summer Travel Chaos
The Cedar Street Bridge connecting Peoria and East Peoria closes June 1 for repairs lasting through August. The shutdown coincides with multiple ramp closures on I-74 and I-474, compounding summer travel headaches for Peoria drivers.
May 31, 2026RockfordRockford Hospital Enrolls First U.S. Patient in Stroke Prevention Trial
MercyHealth's Javon Bea Hospital in Rockford enrolled the first U.S. patient in the INTERCEPT stroke prevention trial, a study that could change how doctors protect atrial fibrillation patients from future strokes.
May 31, 2026bears stadiumSpringfield Deadline: Bears Stadium Bill Shrinks as $56 Billion Budget Race Hits Sunday Midnight
Illinois lawmakers in Springfield face a Sunday midnight deadline to pass a $56 billion budget and a scaled-back Bears stadium bill as the Chicago Bears threaten to move to Indiana.
May 31, 2026Dennis HullChicago Mourns Dennis Hull: Blackhawks Legend and 'Silver Jet' Dies at 81
Dennis Hull, the five-time All-Star Blackhawks forward known as the 'Silver Jet,' has died at 81. He played 13 seasons in Chicago, scored 303 goals, and helped Canada win the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union.
May 31, 2026ElginElgin's Nick Smith Plans to Transform Closed IHOP Into New Restaurant
Elgin restaurant owner Nick Smith purchased the closed IHOP on Randall Road and plans to convert it into a new dining concept. Smith previously transformed a shuttered Lone Star Steakhouse into Old Republic Kitchen + Bar.
May 31, 2026Sylvia Sims BoltonIllinois GOP Demands Waukegan Alderman Sylvia Sims Bolton Resign After Dead Voter Ballot Case
Illinois GOP Chairman Bob Grogan has called for Waukegan Alderman Sylvia Sims Bolton to resign after she turned herself in on felony charges for allegedly submitting a mail-in ballot in her deceased mother's name during the March primary.
May 30, 2026NIUDeKalb: NIU Baseball Wins First-Ever NCAA Tournament Game in Historic 12-10 Victory
The NIU baseball team erased a 4-0 deficit with an eight-run fourth inning to beat Coastal Carolina 12-10 and claim the program's first-ever NCAA Tournament win in DeKalb sports history.
May 30, 2026Phoebe BridgersPhoebe Bridgers Pop-Up Show Sells Out in Davenport as Fans Line Up Around the Block
Grammy-winning artist Phoebe Bridgers sold out a surprise pop-up concert at Davenport's Raccoon Motel Friday, with fans lining up around the block and venue officials handing out just 120 wristbands.
May 30, 2026SIUSIU Alumni Hit $25,000 Endowment Goal for St. Louis Scholarship, Securing Lasting Aid for Future Salukis
The SIU Alumni Association's St. Louis Scholarship Fund has reached its $25,000 endowment goal, creating a permanent source of financial aid for future students from the St. Louis area attending Southern Illinois University Carbondale.
May 30, 2026DecaturDecatur Teen Pleads Guilty in Armed Robbery of $18,800 Rolex at T'bacco Shack
Jarrion A. Jarrett, 19, pleaded guilty Friday to aggravated robbery in the March armed theft of an $18,800 Rolex from a victim outside Decatur's T'bacco Shack. Sentencing is set for June 29.
May 30, 2026EvanstonEvanston Developer Scott Henry Proposes $80 Million Assisted Living Conversion of Vacant Civic Center
Developer Scott Henry's proposal to convert Evanston's vacant Civic Center into an $80 million affordable assisted living facility leads a city crowdsourcing effort with 41 upvotes. The Putting Assets to Work program launched in 2024 with $985,000 in federal funds.
May 29, 2026JolietJoliet Central Student Javion Bailey Killed: 17-Year-Old Jae'Vion Smith Faces First-Degree Murder Charges As Adult
Joliet police obtained an arrest warrant charging 17-year-old Jae'Vion Smith with two counts of first-degree murder in the stabbing death of Joliet Central High School student Javion Bailey. Smith will be charged as an adult.
May 29, 2026Tyesha BellAurora Mother Tyesha Bell Finally Gets Justice: Man Convicted of 2003 Murder After 23-Year Investigation
A Kane County jury convicted Prince Cunningham of first-degree murder in the 2003 shooting death of Aurora mother Tyesha Bell, bringing closure to a 23-year cold case after her remains were discovered in 2020.
May 29, 2026NapervilleNaperville Police Warn of Significant Presence Monday as Teen Takeover Returns to Downtown
Naperville Police Department warns residents to expect a significant police presence in downtown Monday ahead of a planned teen gathering, citing zero tolerance for criminal activity following past incidents.
May 29, 2026water infrastructureBloomington-Normal Could Build a Pipeline to the Illinois River to Secure Water for the Next Century
Bloomington city planners are studying a pipeline to the Illinois River to secure water for the next century. Officials are looking to Joliet's $1.5 billion Lake Michigan pipeline project as a model for governance, cost, and public trust.
May 29, 2026crimeChampaign Man Gets 25 Years for Stabbing First Responders Who Answered His Own Emergency Call
Trevor Lewis, 23, of Champaign, pleaded guilty to stabbing three first responders who arrived at a mental health call he placed himself. Lewis will serve 25 years in prison for attempted first-degree murder.
May 29, 2026peoriaPeoria Man John Earl Nichols Convicted in Apartment Complex Shooting, Faces Up to 30 Years
John Earl Nichols, 30, was convicted Thursday by a Peoria County jury in an August 2025 shooting at the Cityscape Apartments. He faces up to 30 years in prison.
May 29, 2026Nina HarrisSpringfield’s Nina Harris Failed to Disclose $31,000 in Side Pay While Leading State Diversity Commission
Nina Harris, chairperson of Illinois' Commission on Equity and Inclusion, failed to disclose more than $31,000 in side pay from the Springfield Urban League while earning a $155,000 state salary. The omission comes as lawmakers question the commission's performance.
May 29, 2026Brandon JohnsonChicago Mayor Brandon Johnson Invites Pope Leo to Grant Park in Historic Vatican Meeting
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson met privately with Pope Leo XIV in Vatican City and invited the Dolton-born pontiff to celebrate Mass in Grant Park in 2027, following in the footsteps of Pope John Paul II's 1979 visit.
May 29, 2026ElginElgin City Council to Audit Credit Card Spending After Questions Over Uber Rides and Baggage Fees
Elgin City Council will review all council credit card spending after questions arose over $232 in Uber charges and $100 in baggage fees from a conference trip. No rules were broken, but officials say guidelines are needed.
May 29, 2026WaukeganWaukegan Alderman Sylvia Sims Bolton Charged With Felony After Allegedly Casting Dead Mother’s Ballot
Waukegan First Ward Alderman Sylvia Sims Bolton, 67, faces a felony charge after prosecutors allege she cast a mail-in ballot in her deceased mother's name during the March primary election.
May 29, 2026NIUDeKalb Gets Its First Home Mountain West Game: NIU Homecoming Kickoff Set Against Air Force
Northern Illinois University's first home Mountain West Conference game will be the Homecoming matchup against Air Force on October 10 at 6:30 p.m. in DeKalb, according to the league's newly released schedule.
May 28, 2026Quad Cities International AirportQuad Cities International Airport Wins $3.3 Million Federal Grant for Terminal Overhaul
The Quad Cities International Airport received a $3.3 million FAA grant for Phase 2 of Project Gateway, a $19 million terminal renovation that includes new seating, restrooms, dining options, and terrazzo flooring.
May 28, 2026SIUCarbondale: SIU Flying Salukis Capture 10th National Aviation Championship, First Since 2015
Southern Illinois University's Flying Salukis aviation team won its 10th national championship at the NIFA competition in Moline, ending an 11-year title drought that began after back-to-back wins in 2014 and 2015.
May 28, 2026DecaturDecatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe Announces 2027 Reelection Bid, Cites $137 Million in Infrastructure Gains
Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe announced she will seek reelection in 2027, citing more than $137 million in infrastructure funding and the upcoming expansion of Fuyao Glass as highlights of her tenure.
May 28, 2026Daniel BissEvanston Mayor Biss Will Resign to Trigger 2027 Election, City Council Deadlocked Over Who Replaces Him
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss has committed to resigning in time to trigger a special mayoral election in April 2027. The City Council is deadlocked over whether to raise the vote threshold needed to appoint the acting mayor who will fill the interim seat.
May 28, 2026JolietJoliet Man Jesus Banuelos-Vela Denied Pretrial Release After Violating Order of Protection, Police Say
A 31-year-old Joliet man is being held without pretrial release after police say he violated an order of protection and admitted to striking the victim again. The victim described threats involving a knife and a bullet.
May 28, 2026crashAurora Man, 79, Dies After Five-Vehicle Chain-Reaction Crash on Ridge Road
Erling Varland, 79, of Aurora died from injuries after a five-vehicle chain-reaction crash on Ridge Road in Seward Township. Two others were hospitalized. The investigation is ongoing.
May 28, 2026NapervilleNaperville's 100-Year-Old WWII Veteran Finally Attends Prom, 82 Years After Missing His
Naperville resident Ray Svejnoha, 100, finally attended his high school prom 82 years after missing it to serve in World War II, thanks to students at Metea Valley High School who organized a surprise prom night for the WWII veteran.
May 28, 2026State FarmState Farm Cuts Agent Pay And Benefits In Shake-Up That Hits 19,000 Workers
State Farm, headquartered in Bloomington, is cutting agent compensation by an estimated 35-40 percent and eliminating health insurance for its 19,000 agents. Retired agents also face benefit cuts. The changes mark the most significant restructuring in the company's history.
May 28, 2026fatal crashFormer Tilton Police Chief Steven Cornett, 65, Killed in I-74 Construction Zone Crash in Champaign
Steven A. Cornett, 65, a former Tilton Police Chief, was killed Wednesday morning after being struck by a vehicle in an I-74 construction zone in Champaign. The investigation is ongoing.
May 28, 2026PeoriaPeoria City Council Unanimously Approves Land Swap to Unlock 200-Home Expo Gardens Development
Peoria City Council unanimously approved a land swap with Peoria Public Schools to advance a 200-home residential development at the former Exposition Gardens site. The deal reshapes property access and creates new commercial potential.
May 28, 2026budgetRockford Faces $9.4 Million Budget Shortfall as State Revenue Sharing Shrinks
Rockford's Finance Committee approved tapping reserves to cover a $9.4 million budget shortfall as pandemic-era revenue fades and state revenue sharing shrinks. Mayor Tom McNamara says the city has lost more than $144 million in LGDF funds since 2012.
May 28, 2026SpringfieldSpringfield Mourns Two Teens Killed in Separate Crashes Within 48 Hours
Quaneal Leone, 14, was killed while riding his bicycle on East Cook Street. Luke Peterson, 13, died in a single-vehicle crash in McLean County. Both were Springfield teens.
May 27, 2026Chicago BearsChicago Bears Would Get $1.5 Billion Tax Break Under Megaprojects Bill, Cook County Treasurer Says
A Cook County Treasurer's Office analysis says the megaprojects bill would give the Chicago Bears more than $1.5 billion in tax breaks over 40 years while delivering roughly $5 in annual relief to each Cook County homeowner.
May 27, 2026ElginElgin Man Dhruv Patel Faces Felonies After Allegedly Pulling Gun on Hoffman Estates Police
Dhruv Patel, 26, of Elgin, faces seven felony counts after Hoffman Estates police say he drew a gun during a May 14 traffic stop.
May 27, 2026WaukeganWaukegan Mother Maria Perez, 35, Killed in I-94 Crash After Friend Allegedly Drove Drunk and Texted
Waukegan mother Maria Conchita Perez, 35, was killed when the car she was riding in struck a semi-truck on I-94 near Gurnee. The driver, Priscilla Martinez, 29, was charged with aggravated DUI causing death and other felonies after allegedly drinking and using her phone while driving.
May 27, 2026NIUDeKalb: NIU Football Unveils Promo Schedule for Inaugural Mountain West Season
Northern Illinois University announced the full promotional schedule for its inaugural Mountain West Conference football season, with home games at Huskie Stadium featuring Homecoming, Hall of Fame Weekend, and more.
May 27, 2026America 250Quad Cities Communities Line Up America 250 Celebrations From Rock Falls To East Moline
Quad Cities communities from Rock Falls to East Moline are planning America 250 celebrations running from April through July, featuring Civil War reenactments, drone shows, and patriotic festivals.
May 27, 2026SIUSIU Carbondale’s Flying Salukis Win 10th National Aviation Championship
Southern Illinois University Carbondale's Flying Salukis have won their 10th national collegiate aviation championship at SAFECON, outperforming 500 aviators from 30 universities.
May 27, 2026racinoDecatur's $27 Million Racino Hope Rests on Sunday Legislative Deadline
Decatur leaders say a racino bill that could bring $27 million in annual tax revenue and 300 jobs faces a Sunday deadline in the Illinois House before the legislative session ends.
May 27, 2026Roycemore SchoolEvanston's Roycemore School Faces Existential Crisis as Enrollment Plummets and $7.67 Million Bond Looms
Roycemore School in Evanston faces an existential financial crisis after enrollment fell 17.9% and the school breached covenants on a $7.67 million bond. Auditors issued a going-concern warning as the board launches a $2 million fundraising campaign.
May 27, 2026Joliet2 Critically Injured After Wrong-Way Driver Flees Officer, Crashes Into SUV on Jefferson Street in Joliet
Two people were critically injured after a wrong-way driver fled from a Joliet police officer and crashed into an SUV on West Jefferson Street near the Will County Courthouse on Memorial Day night.
May 27, 2026Hollywood CasinoAurora's $360 Million Hollywood Casino Opens June 24 With Celebrity Chefs, Hotel, and Live Shows
The $360 million Hollywood Casino Aurora opens June 24 with celebrity chef restaurants, a 226-room hotel, and live music. The city's $50 million investment will be repaid through a tax increment financing district.
May 27, 2026Chris BradyNaperville Native Chris Brady Makes U.S. Men's National Team Roster for 2026 World Cup
Naperville native Chris Brady, the Chicago Fire goalkeeper, earned a spot on the U.S. Men's National Team roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 22-year-old was signed as a Homegrown player by the Fire at age 16.
May 27, 2026fatal crashBloomington-Normal Area Mourns: 13-Year-Old Springfield Teen Dies in McLean County Crash
Luke W. Peterson, 13, of Springfield was killed in a single-vehicle SUV crash on Route 136 near McLean late Sunday night. The teen was a passenger. A second occupant was hospitalized. The crash is under investigation.
May 26, 2026Phoebe BridgersPhoebe Bridgers Surprise Show Draws 400-Fan Rush in Champaign
Phoebe Bridgers drew hundreds of fans to The Orpheum in Champaign for a surprise Memorial Day concert. Lines formed by 8 a.m. and 400 people were waiting by noon when wristbands went on sale.
May 26, 2026peoriaShots Fired at Family Cookout in Peoria's Glen Oak Park, Suspects Flee
A family was shot at during a Memorial Day cookout at Glen Oak Park in Peoria. No one was injured. Suspects fled the scene and remain at large.
May 26, 2026Memorial DayRockford Marks 156 Years of Memorial Day Tradition as County Honors 554 Fallen Veterans
Rockford celebrated its 156th Memorial Day parade as Winnebago County honored 554 fallen veterans. A Vietnam War veteran spoke of discrimination against women in the military, and the Navy Club held its 104th 'Sinking of the Ship' ceremony.
May 26, 2026PritzkerSpringfield Showdown: Pritzker’s $250 Million Housing Plan Faces Local Control Fight Before Session Ends
Governor J.B. Pritzker's $250 million BUILD housing plan faces opposition from House Republicans in Springfield who say it strips local zoning control. The legislative session ends May 31.
May 26, 2026ChicagoChicago's Memorial Day Weekend: 26 Shot, Toddler Killed in Accidental Shooting
At least 26 people were shot and a 2-year-old boy died in an accidental shooting during Memorial Day weekend in Chicago. The holiday marked the city's fewest fatal shootings in over a decade.
May 26, 2026Hoffer PlasticsSouth Elgin Manufacturer Hoffer Plastics Names Dan Clark As Director of Manufacturing
Hoffer Plastics, a South Elgin custom injection molder, has created and filled a new director of manufacturing role with Dan Clark, a veteran with more than 30 years of experience.
May 26, 2026WaukeganWaukegan Mother Maria Conchita Perez, 35, Dies in I-94 Crash After Friend Allegedly Drove Drunk
Maria Conchita Perez, 35, of Waukegan, died Saturday after her friend allegedly drove drunk and crashed into a semi-truck on I-94 near Gurnee. The driver, Priscilla Martinez, 29, was arrested and charged with aggravated DUI causing death.
May 26, 2026NIUDeKalb: NIU Baseball Heads to NCAA Tournament for First Time in 54 Years
Northern Illinois University baseball has qualified for the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1972, ending a 54-year drought after winning the MAC Championship.
May 26, 2026Quad CitiesQuad Cities Boaters Face 2.5 Hour Waits as Army Corps Closes Auxiliary Lock at Dam 14
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is closing the auxiliary lock at Lock and Dam 14 this summer due to staffing shortages. Quad Cities recreational boaters now face waits of up to 2.5 hours to pass through the main commercial lock.
May 26, 2026CarbondaleCarbondale Opens $13.4 Million Aquatics Center After Two Years Without a Public Pool
The $13.4 million Carbondale Aquatics Center opened Saturday, ending two summer seasons without a public pool. The facility replaces the John M. Fleet Pool, which served the town from 1979 to 2023.
May 26, 2026crimeDecatur Man Arrested in First Degree Murder After 23-Year-Old Killed in Shooting
A 21-year-old Decatur man has been arrested for First Degree Murder after 23-year-old Deamontae L. Weaver was shot and killed at a Decatur home on May 22.
May 26, 2026ICEEvanston Landscaper Jesús Eugenio Castro Detained by ICE at Routine Check-In, Leaving Wife and Two Young Children Behind
Evanston landscaper Jesús Eugenio Castro was detained by ICE during a routine check-in appointment, leaving his wife and two young children behind. Castro is being held in Kentucky ahead of a June 1 court date.
May 25, 2026Joliet1 Dead, 1 Injured After Wrong-Way Driver Crashes Into Semi on I-80 in Joliet
One person died and another was hospitalized after a wrong-way driver collided with a semi-truck on westbound I-80 near Briggs Street in Joliet Monday morning, Illinois State Police said.
May 25, 2026Aurora Housing AuthorityAurora City Council to Vote on 54-Unit Senior Housing Expansion as Demand Outpaces Supply
The Aurora Housing Authority is asking the city council to approve 54 new affordable senior housing units in phase two of 1449 Senior Estates, following overwhelming demand from a waitlist that drew 900 applications in three days.
May 25, 2026fireNaperville Apartment Kitchen Fire Causes $125,000 In Damage, No Injuries Reported
A kitchen fire in a Naperville apartment building on Capistrano Court caused $125,000 in damage Saturday evening. Firefighters responded with a full general alarm. No injuries were reported.
May 25, 2026bloomingtonBloomington-Normal Police Launch Investigation After False Active Shooter Report at Bloomington Junior High
Bloomington police are investigating a false active shooter report at Bloomington Junior High School as a swatting incident. Multiple agencies responded Friday. No students were present.
May 25, 2026Junior LeagueJunior League of Champaign-Urbana to Dissolve After 94 Years of Community Service
The Junior League of Champaign-Urbana, founded in 1932, will dissolve at the end of May after members voted to end operations. The chapter launched programs including the Eastern Illinois Foodbank's Food for Families drive and the Krannert Docents program.
May 25, 2026crimePeoria Man Released After Being Accused of Killing Three Cats With a Hammer
A Peoria Heights man faces three felony charges after allegedly killing three cats with a hammer. A judge released him with GPS monitoring and mental health conditions after citing his lack of criminal history.
May 25, 2026RockfordRockford's Lutheran Church of Good Shepherd Closes After 79 Years. The YMCA Built a $3.7 Million Facility on Its Grounds.
Rockford's Lutheran Church of Good Shepherd held its final worship service after 79 years. The church donated its building to the YMCA, which invested $3.7 million in renovations. A new church plant will use the former chapel space.
May 25, 2026fraudSpringfield Court Sentences Illinois Woman to Prison for Leading 14-Person Pandemic Loan Fraud Ring
A Springfield federal judge sentenced Octavia Murphy to one year in prison for leading a 14-person conspiracy that defrauded the SBA of $170,000 in pandemic relief loans. Thirteen co-defendants face trial in July.
May 25, 2026Chicago BearsPritzker Calls on 'Miracle' as Illinois Races to Keep Chicago Bears From Indiana
Governor JB Pritzker says a 'miracle' can keep the Chicago Bears in Illinois, but Indiana is making its case and the state legislative session ends May 31. The stadium bill is still in limbo.
May 25, 2026ElginElgin's Larkin High School Names New Stadium Field for Legendary Coach Ray Haley
Larkin High School in Elgin will name its new stadium field after legendary coach Ray Haley, who led the Royals football program for 28 years and served as athletic director for 21 years. The community overwhelmingly chose his name from 327 public suggestions.
May 25, 2026WaukeganWaukegan Teen Gabriel Ramirez, 17, Dies After Drowning in Lake Michigan Harbor Channel
Gabriel Ramirez, a 17-year-old Waukegan High School junior, drowned Monday in Lake Michigan's harbor channel. His friends called for help after he did not surface. Water safety experts warn of hidden currents near piers and boat channels.
May 25, 2026SycamoreSycamore Mayor Pushes $10.7M Hospital Revival as Former Owners Fight Back
Developers are seeking state approval to invest $10.7 million in the former Sycamore Kindred Hospital building, but the property's former owners and a rival hospital are fighting the proposal at a June 2 state hearing.
May 24, 2026Quad Cities Comic ConQuad Cities Comic Con Draws Cosplayers And Families To Bend XPO Center In East Moline
Cosplayers, vendors, and families filled the Bend XPO Center in East Moline for the Quad Cities Comic Con, where handmade costumes and pop culture fandom took center stage this weekend.
May 24, 2026CarbondaleCarbondale Super Splash Park Debuts New Climbing Wall After $32,000 Community Fundraiser
Carbondale's Super Splash Park installed a new 16-foot Aqua Climbing Wall after a community fundraiser raised $32,000. The attraction debuts during the park's 10th anniversary season.
May 24, 2026Broadwing EnergyDecatur Residents Demand EPA Deny Permit for Broadwing Energy’s $1 Billion Natural Gas Plant
Decatur residents and activists demanded the Illinois EPA deny a permit for Broadwing Energy's proposed billion-dollar natural gas plant, citing concerns that 2 million tons of CO2 would be injected beneath Lake Decatur, the city's drinking water source.
May 22, 2026Ryan FieldEvanston Residents Push Back on Ryan Field Traffic and Security Plans Ahead of October Opening
Evanston's Ryan Field Advisory Council raised concerns about rideshare zones, parking for local businesses, bike safety, and surveillance technology in Northwestern's draft traffic and security plans for the $800 million stadium.
May 20, 2026Joliet13-Year-Old Charged in Joliet Shooting That Critically Injured Another Boy in Market Street Home
A 13-year-old Joliet boy is in critical condition after being shot in a Market Street home Monday. Police charged another 13-year-old with reckless discharge of a firearm.
May 20, 2026AuroraAurora Police Recover Stolen Gun With Machine Gun Conversion Device After Foot Chase With Two Teens
Aurora police recovered three loaded handguns, including a stolen gun with a machine gun conversion device, after a foot chase with two teens on the city's East Side. An 18-year-old and a 15-year-old face felony weapons charges.
May 20, 2026napervilleNaperville Pride Group Mobilizes to Support Downers Grove’s LGBTQ+ Community After Council Clash
Naperville's Naper Pride is mobilizing members to attend Downers Grove meetings after residents asked the village to end its Pride Month proclamation, sparking a public debate over LGBTQ+ recognition and government neutrality.
May 20, 2026Eric SorensenBloomington-Normal's Rep. Sorensen Revives Big Pharma Bill Aimed at Lowering Drug Prices
Bloomington-Normal's U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen has revived his Stop Games Act, a bill aimed at preventing pharmaceutical companies from blocking generic drug approvals through FDA petitions. The bill now has a Republican cosponsor from Oklahoma.
May 20, 2026accidentVan Crashes Into OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center in Urbana, Forces Evacuation
A van struck a gas meter and crashed into OSF Heart of Mary Medical Center in Urbana Tuesday afternoon, forcing an evacuation. No injuries were reported.
May 19, 2026rockfordRockford Teen Charged With Machine Gun Possession After Traffic Stop
A 17-year-old Rockford teen faces felony charges including unlawful possession of a machine gun after police found a loaded weapon with an automatic switch during a traffic stop on East State Street.
May 19, 2026JB PritzkerPritzker Blasts Johnson Over Chicago Bears Stadium: 'He Has No Plan'
Gov. JB Pritzker accused Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson of having no plan to keep the Bears in the city, as the state legislature races to pass stadium legislation before session ends.
May 19, 2026dekalbWoman Found Dead After Shooting at Martin Crossing Road and Hemingway Road in DeKalb County
Police confirmed a woman was found shot and killed at Martin Crossing Road and Hemingway Road in DeKalb County. DeKalb PD is investigating the circumstances behind the fatal shooting.
May 18, 2026crime2 Injured, Suspect In Custody After Shooting At Carbondale Business On Southern Illinois Avenue
Two people were injured in a shooting at a Carbondale business on Southern Illinois Avenue. The suspect, Ricardo Rodriguez-Rivas, 40, has been placed in the Jackson County Jail pending a hearing.
May 18, 2026crimeDecatur Police Investigate After 27 Shell Casings Found In Front Yard
Decatur Police are investigating after officers found 27 shell casings from four different handgun calibers in the front yard of a home on North Dennis Avenue. No injuries were reported and no arrests have been made as police seek witnesses with information.
May 18, 2026NHRADoug Kalitta Takes No. 1 Qualifier At NHRA Route 66 Nationals In Joliet, Illinois
Doug Kalitta takes No. 1 qualifier in Top Fuel at NHRA Route 66 Nationals in Joliet. Josh Hart sets Top Fuel track speed record with 341.25-mph pass. Multiple drivers earn qualifying positions ahead of Sunday eliminations.
May 17, 2026AuroraAurora Residents Push For Mayor And Alderman Recall Mechanism In November Ballot
Aurora residents are organizing a push to add a recall mechanism for the mayor and aldermen to the November 2026 ballot. The group Aurora for Change is circulating petitions with the goal of qualifying two referendum questions for voters.
May 17, 2026water poloNaperville North water polo teams win sectional championships as coach Kelly Reif builds something special
Naperville North boys and girls water polo teams won sectional championships as coach Kelly Reif leads the Huskies to five straight crowns despite graduating five of seven starters from last year's state championship squad.
May 17, 2026recruitingBloomington-Normal High School Star Bennett Konkey Takes Official Visit To Illinois Football
Bennett Konkey from Geneva High School takes official visit to Illinois football as No. 737 recruit in 2027 class
May 17, 2026communityWee CU Pantry for Kids Serves 232 Families With Food And Essentials In Champaign-Urbana
Pop-up food pantry Wee CU Pantry for Kids served 232 people including 125 children at first event, with next stop in Rantoul on June 19.
May 17, 2026peoriaVote for Peoria's All-Time Greatest Boys Basketball Players
USA TODAY Network asks Peoria residents to vote on their top 10 all-time boys basketball players, including names like Shaun Livingston, J.A. Guyton, and Chris Williams.
May 17, 2026rockford25-Year-Old Motorcyclist Dies In Fatal Crash At Rockford Intersection
A 25-year-old motorcyclist died Saturday after a crash at Auburn Street and Harlem Boulevard in Rockford shut down traffic for hours.
May 17, 2026Springfield Expert Warns Gas Tax Suspension Would Not Help Most Drivers As Prices Rise
Springfield expert warns gas tax suspension would save only $285 annually for average drivers as fuel prices rise
May 17, 2026Special OlympicsElgin Police Officers Collect Donations For Special Olympics During Cop On A Rooftop Fundraiser
Elgin and Palatine police officers participated in the Cop on a Rooftop fundraiser, collecting donations from Dunkin Donuts customers to support Special Olympics Illinois.
May 17, 2026LeAnn RimesLeAnn Rimes Reschedules Two Waukegan Concerts Amid Family Crisis And Health Struggles
LeAnn Rimes has rescheduled two Waukegan concerts as she deals with family health crisis and her own vocal cord issues after a stroke hit a parent and she contracted covid with laryngitis.
May 17, 2026DeKalb County Residents Face Fire Service Gap as Auburn Fire Refuses To Respond Without Payment
Auburn Mayor Dave Clark has refused to respond to Jackson Township fire calls without compensation after the township failed to pay for services provided during a 16-week gap in fire coverage. Residents are now facing potential delays in emergency response as the city ends its obligation to respond to non-urgent calls.
May 17, 2026Old Capitol Farmer's MarketOld Capitol Farmer's Market Opens For 27th Season In Springfield Decatur Area
The Old Capitol Farmer's Market opened for its 27th season Saturday, offering fresh local produce to the Decatur Springfield area community with SNAP benefits for shoppers.
May 17, 2026crimeSecond Suspect Charged In Evanston Shooting, Police Say
A 19-year-old Evanston man has been charged with aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon and mob action after police recovered two loaded firearms from his backpack in connection with an April shooting on Howard Street.
May 17, 2026jolietJoliet Star Wars Day Parade Announced For June 6 With Food Vendors And Costumed Characters
Joliet Public Library announces Star Wars Day parade and activities for June 6 with 100 costumed characters, food vendors and family friendly events in downtown Joliet.
May 17, 2026crimeTwo Wounded in Targeted Shooting On Aurora West Side, No One In Custody
Two men were hospitalized after a shooting on West Downer Place on Aurora's West Side. Police believe the incident was targeted and no one is currently in custody.
May 17, 2026baseballNormal Community, Normal West, and Peoria Notre Dame Earn Big 12 Baseball Wins Friday
Three local high schools in Bloomington-Normal earned Big 12 baseball wins on Friday with Normal Community, Normal West, and Peoria Notre Dame all recording victories.
May 17, 2026food securityPop-Up Food Pantry Serves Hundreds of Children in Champaign-Urbana Area
A pop-up food pantry called Wee CU Pantry for Kids serves hundreds of children and families in the Champaign-Urbana area. Organizer Jerelle Leeks created the program after SNAP benefit changes left many clients struggling to meet new requirements.
May 17, 2026youth violencePeoria School Safety Director Alarmed By Youth Violence Patterns Starting In Second Grade
Peoria Public Schools Director of School Safety Demario Boone describes alarming patterns of youth violence starting in second grade, urging community intervention with counseling and home support.
May 17, 2026food bankNorthern Illinois Food Bank Hosts Emergency Drive-Through for Rockford Residents Impacted by SNAP Cuts
Northern Illinois Food Bank hosts emergency drive-through distribution in Rockford as more than 100,000 Illinois residents lose SNAP benefits this month.
May 17, 2026SpringfieldSpringfield Caregiver Hid 86-Year-Old Neighbor For Three Years And Stole $130,000
A Springfield caregiver hid the body of her 86-year-old neighbor for over three years and stole approximately $130,000 from her bank account, according to police reports. Gena English-Wheat remains at large with a skip notice.
May 17, 2026Billy Goat TavernSam Sianis, Owner of Legendary Billy Goat Tavern in Chicago, Dies at 91
Legendary Chicago saloonkeeper Sam Sianis, owner of the Billy Goat Tavern, has died at age 91. Sianis was a Greek immigrant who built a business empire and became a cultural icon in Chicago through his work ethic and the famous Curse of the Billy Goat.
May 16, 2026D-III College Ultimate Frisbee Championship Takes Over Waukegan This Weekend
D-III College Ultimate Frisbee Championship 2026 brings college teams to Waukegan for three days of competition at the Greg Petry SportsPark.
May 16, 2026dekalbDeKalb Track Teammates Killed In Wrong-Way Crash While Driving Home For Mother's Day
Two young track athletes from DeKalb High School were among three people killed in a fatal head-on collision on Interstate 88 while driving to celebrate Mother's Day with family.
May 16, 2026educationRivermont Collegiate Loses Accreditation After Single Complaint, Board Pursues Appeal
Rivermont Collegiate School in Bettendorf lost its ISACS accreditation after a single complaint filed by two individuals. The school maintains Cognia accreditation and is pursuing appeals while retaining legal counsel.
May 16, 2026CarbondaleCarbondale Community Arts Event Brings Screen Printing And Sewing Workshops This Weekend
Carbondale hosts a free DIY Day Block Party featuring screen printing, sewing, and music workshops at the Eurma C. Hayes Center this Saturday.
May 16, 2026decaaturDecatur Walmart to Pay $230,000 in Disability Hiring Discrimination Settlement
Walmart in Decatur to pay $230,000 to settle disability hiring discrimination lawsuit filed by the EEOC, requiring the store to provide reasonable accommodations and train hiring staff.
May 16, 2026crimeEvanston Police Charge 19-Year-Old Resident With Gun Possession And Mob Action After April Shooting
Evanston police have charged 19-year-old Cajmere T. Lemond with gun possession and mob action after recovering two loaded firearms from his backpack in connection with an April shooting on Howard Street.
May 16, 2026child safetyJoliet Mother Arrested After 4-Year-Old Left Home Alone Nearly Runs Into Traffic
A 38-year-old Joliet mother was arrested after her 4-year-old daughter was found wandering near a busy intersection. Police say the child had been left home alone while the mother was at work. The mother was charged with endangering the life or health of a child and released on a notice to appear.
May 16, 2026AuroraFormer Aurora Christian Schools Board Member Michael Herbert Charged With 10 Felonies In Child Sex Abuse Case
Aurora police charged former Aurora Christian Schools board member Michael Robert Herbert with 10 felony counts of child sex abuse after an investigation into long-term sexual abuse of a minor. Police are looking for more victims.
May 16, 2026L.L.Bean Store Opens in Naperville This October on Route 59
L.L.Bean will open a new 16,000-square-foot store in Naperville this October, taking over the former Bed Bath & Beyond location on Route 59. The fourth Illinois location is part of a wider retail expansion by the outdoor clothing brand.
May 16, 2026architectureChampaign-Urbana residents get rare chance to tour private Mid-Century Modern homes on May 23
The second annual CU MCM Open House brings Champaign-Urbana architecture enthusiasts together for a day of tours featuring seven private Mid-Century Modern buildings designed by five local architects.
May 16, 2026OSF HealthCareOSF Children's Hospital in Peoria to Leave St. Jude Network and Operate Independently
OSF HealthCare Children's Hospital in Peoria will end its 40-year affiliation with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital on June 30 and operate independently as a specialized cancer and blood disorders center. Hospital leadership assures continuity of care with the same physicians and staff members remaining in place.
May 16, 2026rockfordRockford University Backs 350-Unit Apartment Development on East State Street
Rockford developers proposed a 350-unit apartment complex next to Rockford University as part of the University Hill development on East State Street.
May 16, 2026springfieldSpringfield Expert Warns Gas Tax Suspension Would Not Save Drivers Much Money
UIS expert Dr. Ken Kriz says suspending the Illinois gas tax would save the average driver only $285 per year while risking infrastructure funding.
May 16, 2026chicago police departmentChicago Police Department Body Removal Contractor Sued Over Suspended License
A lawsuit alleges a former Chicago Police Department body removal contractor violated contract terms after her funeral director and embalmer licenses were suspended for failure to pay state income taxes. The case involves a $4.4 million contract and could impact how the city handles deceased person transportation.
May 16, 2026dog attackElgin Man Receives $300,000 Settlement After Being Attacked By Two Pit Bulls
An Illinois man who was injured when two pit bulls attacked him while walking his dog in Elgin received a $300,000 settlement from the homeowner's insurance policy.
May 16, 2026affordable housingHabitat for Humanity Dedicates 147th House in East Moline, Funded by John Deere Foundation
Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities dedicated its 147th home in East Moline, funded entirely by the John Deere Foundation. The $200,000 house will benefit a single mother who has worked in the Quad Cities for over 19 years.
May 16, 2026communityDIY Day Block Party Brings Arts Workshops And Free Food To Carbondale This Weekend
A free community arts event featuring workshops, live music, and food is taking place this weekend at the Eurma C. Hayes Center in Carbondale. The program is funded by Artspace Southern Illinois and the Illinois Arts Council.
May 16, 2026decaturDecatur Police Cleared After Crossbow Incident With Suspect, State’s Attorney Confirms
Three Decatur police officers cleared of charges after facing a crossbow during a home entry. Illinois State Police released body camera footage of the incident. The Macon County State’s Attorney’s Office said the officers acted lawfully.
May 16, 2026Evanston Hosts Tenant Resource Webinar As City Pushes For Renters Rights
Evanston officials hosted a Tenant Resource Webinar to educate renters about the Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance, which was amended in 2024 to strengthen tenant protections including fee disclosure and essential services requirements.
May 16, 2026Joliet Taxpayers On Hook For Over $2 Million In Eric Lurry Lawsuit Settlement
Joliet taxpayers face a $2.15 million settlement cost to resolve Nicole Lurry's 2020 federal lawsuit over the death of her husband Eric Lurry in police custody.
May 15, 2026AuroraTwo Hurt in Aurora Shootout Involving Multiple Vehicles, Police Say
Two men were injured and multiple cars were damaged in a targeted shootout near W. Downer Place in Aurora, Illinois, Friday morning. Police believe there is no threat to the broader community.
May 15, 2026napervilleNaperville Garage Fire Causes $100K In Damage
A garage fire in Naperville caused $100K in damage with no injuries reported. Fire investigators determined the cause was accidental and the home was deemed habitable.
May 15, 2026darin lahoodU.S. Rep. Darin LaHood Secures $1.5 Million Federal Funding For Bloomington Airport Cargo Road
U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood secured a $1.5 million federal grant to build a new cargo road at the Central Illinois Regional Airport in Bloomington. The funding will separate truck traffic from passenger terminal traffic and improve safety for all vehicles using the airport.
May 15, 2026Man accused of attempted murder in Urbana granted pretrial release following medical procedure
John Webb was granted pretrial release in connection with a January shooting in Urbana after a medical procedure. He faces attempted murder and aggravated battery charges. Webb will be on GPS monitoring while on release.
May 15, 2026PeoriaPeoria Residents Demand Safer Parks After Recent Youth Violence Incidents
Peoria residents held a meeting to demand safer parks after recent youth violence incidents, calling for stronger police presence and community partnerships.
May 15, 2026cage fightingCM Punk to Make Illinois Debut at Rockford Cage Fighting Event on June 26
WWE and UFC veteran CM Punk will make an appearance at the Cage Fury Fighting Championships Illinois debut at Hard Rock Casino Rockford on June 26.
May 15, 2026politicsIllinois Politicians Spend Millions on Meals, Saputo's in Springfield Among Top Restaurants for Campaign Funds
Chicago Sun-Times investigation reveals Illinois politicians spent over $3 million on restaurant meals using campaign funds, with Saputo's in Springfield receiving nearly $650,000 since 2020.
May 15, 2026chicago fire departmentChicago Fire Department Engineer Dies During Training Exercise In West Ridge
A 30-year member of the Chicago Fire Department died during a training exercise on North Kedzie in West Ridge. Authorities say Steven Decker, 61, was killed during the exercise.
May 15, 2026elginElgin Police Officer And Firefighter Honored As Officers of The Year By American Legion
Elgin police detective Paul Dublinski and fire Lt. Pat Rasmussen receive annual officer of the year honors from American Legion Post 57 for their dedicated service to the community.
May 15, 2026DeKalbGovernor Signs Bill Making Some DeKalb Elections Nonpartisan
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp signed a bill making some DeKalb County elections nonpartisan, affecting district attorney, clerk of superior court, tax commissioner and solicitor general positions. Local leaders express concerns about the law's selective application and plan legal action to overturn it.
May 15, 2026Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber Opens New Downtown Silvis Office With Grand Opening Event
The Greater Quad Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce announces a grand opening for its new downtown Silvis office as it moves from its longtime Moline location to provide more space for community events and business meetings.
May 15, 2026crimeTwo Hurt, Three Arrested After Shooting On South Lewis Lane In Carbondale
Two victims were injured and three people were arrested after a shooting on South Lewis Lane in Carbondale early Wednesday morning.
May 15, 2026Flames Engulf RV in Decatur Neighborhood, Melting Part of Home Siding
An RV burst into flames on King Street in Decatur on Wednesday, melting part of the siding of the home next to it. The Decatur Fire Department said no injuries were reported, though investigators have not yet determined how the fire started.
May 15, 2026evanstonEvanston City Council Faces Emergency Subsistence Pilot Program Proposal
Evanston Social Services Committee votes neutral on $375,350 emergency subsistence pilot program that would provide up to three months of rent and utility assistance to qualifying renters. City Council decision due May 26.
May 15, 2026crimeTwo Joliet Teens Arrested With Fully Automatic Pistol And Semi-Automatic AR Gun Under Surveillance
Two Joliet teenagers were arrested under police surveillance after officers spotted them with a fully automatic pistol and semi-automatic AR gun. One teen remains detained in Will County Jail while the other was released after three days.
May 15, 2026AuroraAurora Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Attacking ICE Officers, Deputy
Francisco Javier Acevedo-Caldera of Aurora sentenced to one year in federal prison for assaulting ICE officers and a sheriff's deputy during an arrest attempt in July 2025.
May 15, 2026educationNaperville orchestra teacher Matthew White wins Golden Apple Award after decade of teaching at Scullen Middle School
Matthew White, an 11-year teaching veteran at Scullen Middle School in Naperville, won a Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching after being selected from more than 600 nominations among fourth through eighth grade teachers in Illinois. The award includes a $5,000 cash prize and a spring sabbatical from Northwestern University.
May 15, 2026bloomingtonBloomington City Council to Discuss Moratorium on Hyperscale Data Centers
Bloomington City Council will discuss a temporary moratorium on hyperscale data centers after public meetings showed resident concerns about environmental and infrastructure impacts. The proposed pause would give officials time to develop more robust zoning standards.
May 15, 2026agricultureUSDA Proposes Moving Two Critical Seed Banks From University of Illinois Campus
The USDA proposes relocating the Maize Genetics Cooperation Stock Center and National Soybean Germplasm Collection from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, a decision experts say could threaten irreplaceable agricultural research assets.
May 15, 2026peoriaPeoria City Council Approves Liquor License For King Zone In East Bluff After Police Opposition
Peoria City Council approved a liquor license for King Zone in East Bluff despite police opposition and community concerns about crime. The store must comply with strict conditions including limited hours and no on-premises consumption.
May 15, 2026rockfordRockford Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Arson At His Own Restaurant
James Purifoy was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison for arson at his own Rockford restaurant. He also faces $305,400 in restitution and three years of supervised release after admitting he set the fire and made fraudulent insurance claims.
May 15, 2026ChicagoNearly 1 in 12 Criminal Defendants On Ankle Monitors In Chicago Have Gone AWOL, Authorities Say
Nearly 300 criminal defendants released on ankle monitors in Chicago are currently missing from the program. Officials say 246 out of 3,048 defendants are not actively wearing their monitoring devices.
May 14, 2026immigrationFederal Immigration Agents Make At Least Three Arrests In Waukegan As DHS Returns To Lake County
Federal immigration agents made at least three arrests in Waukegan on Wednesday as DHS returned to Lake County after Operation Midway Blitz ended last November.
May 14, 2026WWIIQuad Cities WWII Paratrooper Honored With Memorial Exhibit At Rock Island Arsenal Museum
WWII paratrooper Henry Langrehr from Clinton Island is being honored with a memorial exhibit featuring his uniform and personal items. He survived crashing through a greenhouse roof during D-Day invasion.
May 12, 2026crimeCarbondale Police Arrest 14-Year-Old Boy After Shots Fired Call In South Ash Street
Carbondale Police arrested a 14-year-old boy after responding to a shots fired call in the city. Officers found the suspect on May 9 and he was taken to the Jackson County Jail while awaiting transport to a juvenile detention facility.
May 12, 2026DecaturADM Opens New 24/7 Food-Grade Trucking Wash Facility in Decatur
ADM opened a new six-bay food-grade trucking wash facility in Decatur that operates 24/7 to ensure consistent trailer cleaning and sanitization.
May 12, 2026Evanston City Council Votes 7-2 To Adopt Sweeping Housing Plan After Marathon Debate
Evanston City Council voted 7-2 to adopt the Housing 4 All strategic housing plan after an overnight debate that included 64 amendments. The plan includes goals for greater housing density and references to a just cause rental law.
May 12, 2026Bill Murray Makes First Stop at New Joliet Bridal Suites After Historic Prison Ballgame
Hollywood star Bill Murray made his first guest stay at The Banks Bridal Suites & Lodging in downtown Joliet after attending the historic Big House Ballgame at the Old Joliet Prison. Local entrepreneur Kenny Banks, a former U.S. Olympic track and field athlete, celebrated the ribbon-cutting event for his new seven-suite establishment at 317 N. Chicago St.
May 7, 2026school busSchool Bus T-Boned With 4 Students Near Aurora Intersection
A school bus carrying four students was T-boned by a Honda at an Aurora intersection. Police report none of the students were injured and the bus driver was able to evacuate safely.
May 7, 2026electric utilityNaperville Council Examines Joint Action Agency as Power Option for Electric Utility
Naperville city council explores joint action agency as potential power provider option for electric utility after pausing IMEA contract extension talks
May 7, 2026data centersBloomington-Normal Residents Speak Out Against Hyperscale Data Centers in Public Forum
Bloomington and Normal residents gathered at public forums to voice overwhelming opposition to hyperscale data centers, citing concerns about water usage energy costs and farmland preservation
May 7, 2026University of IllinoisUniversity of Illinois Physicists Develop Breakthrough Theory Linking Macroscopic Order and Microscopic Disorder in Solids
Physicists at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a comprehensive theory linking macroscopic nematic order with microscopic disorder in solids. This breakthrough could revolutionize understanding of electronic phases in crystalline materials.
May 7, 2026PeoriaPeoria Residents Question O'Brien Steel Over Potential Caroline Street Closure
North Valley residents say O'Brien Steel misled the Peoria Park District Board of Trustees about plans to close Caroline Street for an expansion project that threatens the Detweiller Playground and Marina.
May 6, 2026Rockford teen arrested after police find modified handgun near school
A 16-year-old male is in juvenile detention after police found a modified handgun on him near West View Elementary School. The teen was charged with aggravated unlawful possession of a weapon and other firearm-related charges.
May 6, 2026housingSpringfield Named One of the Hottest Housing Markets in the Country
Springfield, Illinois ranked number 10 on Realtor.com's list of the hottest housing markets for March 2026, with Springfield, Massachusetts leading the nation.
May 6, 2026ChicagoWoman killed, 2 teens injured in Chicago shooting on West 50th Street
Two motorcycle riders shot more than 30 times at a car in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood on Tuesday afternoon, killing one woman and injuring two teenagers.
May 6, 2026Elderly South Elgin Man Found Dead in Fox River St. Charles Investigation Underway
An elderly man from South Elgin was found floating in the Fox River in St. Charles on Wednesday morning. The Kane County Coroner's Office has identified the body but is withholding the name pending notification of next of kin.
May 6, 2026WaukeganFormer Waukegan cop convicted of throwing handcuffed man to ground
Former Waukegan cop convicted of misdemeanor reckless conduct for throwing handcuffed man to ground
May 6, 2026NIUBrayden Gross Signs With NIU After Great Midwest Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year Season
Louisville High School graduate Brayden Gross signs with NIU after earning Great Midwest Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year honors and finishing as a 29-4 star at Walsh University
May 6, 2026gas pricesGas Prices Top $4 A Gallon In Iowa Quad Cities As Costs Continue To Climb
Gas prices in the Iowa Quad Cities have topped $4 a gallon for the first time in weeks. Illinois side residents are paying even more at $4.65 per gallon.
May 6, 2026Carbondale High School Students Find Summer Work at Local Job Fair
Nearly 100 Carbondale high school students attended a job fair with more than 30 local businesses looking to hire teens for summer positions.
May 6, 2026Decatur City Council Approves $180,000 Study For Future Bus Service
Decatur City Council approved an $180,000 payment to the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission for a bus service study to determine future transit needs and ensure ADA-compliant stops.
May 6, 2026District 65Evanston parents fear School Age Child Care program could be eliminated due to budget cuts
Evanston parents and educators rally to protect the district-run School Age Child Care program as District 65 seeks to slash over $6 million in budget cuts for fiscal year 2027. The board agreed to nearly $1 million in reductions including cuts to technology spending, crossing guards, and capital expenditures.
May 6, 2026JolietLA Artist Sijia Chen Unveils Unity Dome Sculpture in Downtown Joliet Before Return to Los Angeles
Los Angeles artist Sijia Chen installed a Unity Dome sculpture in downtown Joliet as part of the Route 66 centennial celebration. Chen is leaving Joliet today to return to Los Angeles.
May 6, 2026mental healthAurora Mental Health Center Cuts 111 Jobs Amid State Funding Dispute
Aurora Mental Health and Recovery is eliminating 111 jobs after state officials refuse to adjust its budget under Colorado's new funding model. The safety net provider expects to lose $6.5 million in revenue next year and must return $7.2 million to the state this year.
May 6, 2026Naperville School District Cuts $12.4 Million Deficit to $4 Million With 59 Job Openings
Naperville School District 203 reduces projected budget deficit from $12.4 million to $4 million through workforce cuts including 59 unfilled positions and spending reductions across the district.
May 6, 2026flood reliefRep. Sorensen Pledges $1.6 Million For Uptown Normal Flood Relief
Rep. Eric Sorensen pledged $1.6 million in federal funding for Uptown Normal flood mitigation efforts. The money would help upgrade storm sewers and drains in the central business district that has faced severe flooding in recent years.
May 6, 2026urbanaTwo Arrested in Shooting on Northwest Side of Urbana
Two men were arrested in a shooting incident on Urbana's northwest side. Police responded to a domestic incident involving a firearm at the 1200 block of Ellis Drive on Sunday morning.
May 6, 2026Peoria school board president ousted over scandal comments
Peoria Unified School District governing board president Heather Rooks was voted out Tuesday night in a special meeting over her comments about a teacher-student sex scandal at Centennial High School.
May 6, 2026Fatal Pedestrian Crash Leaves One Dead in Rockford
One woman died after a car struck two pedestrians near Elm Street and Ash Street in Rockford on Sunday. The juvenile driver and mother were uninjured but the case remains under investigation.
May 6, 2026SpringfieldSpringfield mayor vetoes STAR bond district plan amid downtown struggles
Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher vetoed a proposal to create a STAR bond district for Alderman Shawn Gregorys History Across the Tracks project. She said the financing should instead go to expanding the BOS Center and building a new downtown hotel.
May 6, 2026WalgreensChicago Alderman Calls for Corporate Abandonment Charge After Walgreens Stores Closure
Chicago Ald. William Hall called for a new criminal charge against Walgreens after the pharmacy chain announced it would close a store in the Chatham neighborhood due to theft and safety concerns.
May 6, 2026juvenile justiceNew Statewide Juvenile Screening Process Goes Live Across Illinois Detention Centers
A new statewide tool to determine whether to detain a child or not has been put into use across Illinois juvenile detention centers, aiming to create more consistent decisions across the state after years of fragmented approaches.
May 6, 2026vaccinesIllinois Childhood Vaccination Rates Remain High Despite Federal Vaccine Rollback
Illinois maintains high childhood vaccination rates despite federal efforts to reduce vaccine requirements, with more than 95 percent of children receiving 10 school-required vaccines as of October.
May 5, 2026budgetIllinois Policy Institute Proposes Spending Cap, Pension Reform to End Perpetual Budget Deficits
Illinois Policy Institute released Illinois Forward 2026, a budget proposal that could save taxpayers nearly $27 billion by 2030 through spending caps, pension reform, and health insurance cost reductions without raising taxes.
May 5, 2026higher educationIllinois Bill Would Overhaul Public University Funding Formula, Target Underfunded Schools
Illinois Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford proposes new formula to replace flat percentage increases with needs-based funding for public universities. Bill targets underfunded rural institutions while University of Illinois lobbies against reform.
May 5, 2026Federal Investigators Dig Into Illinois Governor Pritzker's Property Tax Break on Gold Coast Mansion
Federal prosecutors are collecting records on a $331,000 property tax break Illinois Governor Pritzker received after removing toilets from a Gold Coast mansion, according to reports from the Chicago Sun-Times.
May 5, 2026healthcareIllinois Senate Passes Bill to Protect Trans and Abortion Patient Prescription Privacy
Illinois Senate committee passes bill to protect prescription privacy for transgender patients and abortion medication users by removing these drugs from the state's Prescription Monitoring Program.
May 4, 2026rural healthcareNine Rural Illinois Hospitals Face Closure as Federal Medicaid Cuts Threaten Healthcare Access
Nine rural Illinois hospitals face closure as federal Medicaid cuts threaten healthcare access, with 500-plus beds at risk and $6.36 billion in rural Medicaid funding potentially lost.
May 4, 2026pensionsIllinois Alone Has State Pension Debt Over $100 Billion, Experts Warn of Pension System Collapse
Illinois is the only state with over $100 billion in unfunded state pension liabilities, according to a new report from the state legislature's Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability. The state's pension debt reached $143.5 billion at the end of fiscal year 2025, raising concerns about long-term pension system stability and taxpayer burden.
May 4, 2026Illinois Governor Pausing Public Duties After Routine Health Procedure
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is stepping back from public duties after a routine outpatient urology procedure, with plans to resume public events next week.
May 4, 2026nuclear energyIllinois Lifts Nuclear Ban, But Tightens Grip on Energy Supply
Illinois passed Senate Bill 25 lifting the 40-year nuclear moratorium while expanding state control over energy planning and creating new regulatory programs that industry groups warn could raise costs for consumers.
May 4, 2026jury selection60 Dead People Found on Illinois Jury Panel in Rural County as Systemic Flaws Come to Light
Sixty dead people found on a Whiteside County jury panel reveal systemic flaws in Illinois voter and jury selection processes as defense attorney challenges Sixth Amendment right to impartial jury
May 4, 2026insuranceIllinois Insurance Bill Could Raise Costs and Reduce Consumer Choice, Industry Group Warns
Industry group warns Senate Bill 1486 could raise insurance costs and reduce consumer choice by limiting insurers' ability to price risk accurately
May 3, 2026Illinois House Passes Private Guardianship Bill With Safeguards After Hospital Opposition
Illinois House passes private guardianship bill with safeguards after months of debate with hospital opponents who argue it could delay patient care
May 3, 2026redistrictingSupreme Court Ruling Kills Illinois Redistricting Amendment That Would Force Race-Based Districts
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that requiring racial influence districts in redistricting violates the 14th Amendment, killing Illinois' proposed constitutional amendment that would have mandated race-based districting plans.
May 3, 2026pensionIllinois Lawmakers Push to Repeal 2015 Anti-BDS Pension Investment Law Amid Free Speech Debate
Illinois lawmakers are pushing to repeal a 2015 law that prohibits state pension funds from investing in companies that boycott Israel, sparking debate over free speech versus pension investment restrictions.
May 3, 2026Illinois Commission Finds Federal Immigration Agents Used Illegal Force During Operation Midway Blitz
Illinois Accountability Commission released final report finding federal immigration agents used unconstitutional force during Trump administration's Operation Midway Blitz, recommending investigations and policy changes.
May 2, 2026Illinois Overhauls School Rating System as Board Removes Chronic Absentism Penalty
The Illinois State Board of Education approved a new school accountability system that removes chronic absenteeism penalties and changes how schools are rated on the state report card starting fall 2026.
May 2, 2026SNAPIllinois SNAP Benefits End Friday for 150,000 Residents Over New Federal Work Requirements
Illinois SNAP benefits end Friday for 150,000 residents over new federal work requirements. Governor Pritzker criticizes Trump administration policy changes that affect able-bodied adults without dependents.
May 2, 2026masksIllinois Senate Passes Right to Mask Bill to Protect Wearers From Discrimination
Illinois Senate Democrats pass SB 3340 on a 37-18 vote to protect people who wear medical masks and respirators from discrimination and harassment in public and workplace settings.
May 2, 2026educationIllinois Board of Education Asks for $200,000 to Revamp How It Counts Low-Income Students Amid Federal Eligibility Changes
The Illinois State Board of Education is asking for $200,000 to develop a new method for counting low-income students after federal eligibility rules are expected to reduce the number of students classified as poor.
May 2, 2026laborIllinois Bill Would Allow Striking Workers Unemployment Pay After Two Weeks
Illinois lawmakers are considering House Bill 2565 that would allow striking workers to receive unemployment benefits after two weeks on the picket line, a change opposed by business groups who say it would increase costs for employers.
May 2, 2026SenateIllinois Senate Committee Passes Privacy Bill Protecting Transgender and Abortion Patients From Prescription Monitoring
A Senate committee in Illinois passed SB 4834 in a 9-4 vote to remove testosterone and abortion medications from the state Prescription Monitoring Program, protecting transgender and abortion patients from potential privacy violations and discrimination.
May 2, 2026120,000 Illinoisans Face SNAP Benefit Cuts as Federal Work Requirements Take Effect
New federal work requirements for SNAP recipients effective May 1 could affect 120,000 Illinois residents who must work or volunteer 80 hours per month to maintain food assistance benefits.
May 1, 2026energyIllinois Governor Signs Sweeping Energy Reform Bill Amid Power Shortfall Fears
Gov. Pritzker signs Senate Bill 25 into law, lifting nuclear ban and creating battery storage incentives amid energy shortage concerns. The bill grants new authority to utility regulators and includes virtual power plant programs.
May 1, 2026Illinois Medicaid Program Faces $4.5 Billion Funding Crisis as Federal Provider Tax Cuts Loom
Illinois Medicaid faces a $4.5 billion annual funding crisis as federal cuts to provider taxes take effect starting in 2028, threatening billions in state and federal matching funds.
May 1, 2026laborUIC Graduate Student Workers Strike Over Pay and Health Coverage
UIC graduate student workers went on strike after months of stalled contract talks over wages and health coverage, with union members earning $24,000 annually while private universities in the area pay graduate workers nearly double that amount.
May 1, 2026Springfield Tourism Soars But Downtown Businesses Struggle Amid Hotel Closure and Fire Damage
Record tourism expenditures of $650 million forecasted for Springfield, but downtown businesses struggle as Wyndham hotel closure and Adams Street fire drive tourists to city perimeter
May 1, 2026Illinois Governor Signs $1.5B Transit Bill Without Statewide Tax Hikes
Governor Pritzker signs $1.5 billion transit funding bill creating Northern Illinois Transit Authority without statewide tax hikes.
May 1, 2026Illinois Becomes First Midwest State to Legalize Physician-Assisted Death Amid 2026 Healthcare Overhaul
Illinois becomes first Midwest state to legalize physician-assisted death as part of sweeping 2026 healthcare reforms. Governor Pritzker signed Deb's Law into law on December 12, 2025, with implementation set for September 2026.
May 1, 2026Illinois Lawmakers Consider Repealing Anti-BDS Pension Investment Law
Illinois lawmakers are considering repealing a 2015 law that prohibits state pension funds from investing in companies that boycott Israel, amid debate over free speech versus fiduciary responsibility.
May 1, 2026insuranceIllinois Insurance Bill Would Raise Costs and Reduce Consumer Choice
Illinois insurance bill SB 1486 would add regulatory requirements to auto and homeowners coverage, but industry groups warn it could raise costs and reduce consumer choice by constraining insurers' ability to price risk accurately.
April 30, 2026redistrictingIllinois Senate Halts Redistricting Amendment After Supreme Court Strikes Down Voting Rights Act Provision
Illinois Senate halts constitutional amendment protecting majority-minority districts after Supreme Court ruling weakens Voting Rights Act protections.
April 30, 2026Illinois Tier 2 Pension Bill Would Add $53 Billion in Costs While Lowering Retirement Age
Illinois lawmakers advanced Senate Bill 1937 to increase Tier 2 pension benefits, but the $53 billion cost raises concerns about credit ratings and property taxes.
April 30, 2026electionsIllinois Governor JB Pritzker Weighs 2028 Presidential Bid Against Trump
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is positioning himself as a potential Democratic presidential candidate for 2028, with experts suggesting his battles with President Trump and appeal to Black voters could make him competitive in the Democratic primary.
April 30, 2026Chicago Workers Comp System Reformed After Decades of Corruption Under Ed Burke
Chicago workers compensation program reformed after decades of corruption under convicted former Ald. Ed Burke, who operated the system without oversight while chairing the City Council Finance Committee.
April 30, 2026budgetIllinois Treasurer Frerichs Defends $100 Million Israel Bond Investment Amid Senate Scrutiny Over Foreign Bonds
Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs defended the state's $100 million investment in Israeli bonds during a contentious Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, while also highlighting record unclaimed property returns of over $2.5 billion since 2015.
April 30, 2026Chicago BearsIllinois House Passes Megaprojects Bill for Bears Stadium, but Team Still Wants Changes
The Illinois House passed a megaprojects bill on Wednesday that would allow the Chicago Bears to negotiate long-term property tax breaks for a new stadium in Arlington Heights, but the team still says additional changes are needed.
April 29, 2026Illinois Lawmakers Target Glock Pistols With Redesign Mandate After Criminal Modifications
Illinois lawmakers are considering a bill that would require gun manufacturers to redesign certain pistol models, particularly Glock-style pistols, to prevent them from being easily converted into automatic weapons.
April 29, 2026Supreme CourtIllinois Supreme Court Expands Temporary Law Licenses to Combat Rural Legal Deserts
The Illinois Supreme Court expanded Rule 711 to allow law graduates who fail the bar exam to practice under supervision for longer periods, aiming to address attorney shortages in rural counties.
April 29, 2026Illinoisans Pay $77 Billion More in Taxes Under Pritzker as Governor Pushes for More Hikes
Governor J.B. Pritzker proposes another round of tax increases after presiding over 57 tax and fee hikes since 2019, with Illinoisans now paying over $77 billion more in taxes. The median household pays nearly $1,400 more annually than under prior levels.
April 29, 2026Illinois State UniversityIllinois State University Strike Enters Fourth Week as Negotiations Stall Over Pay and Retroactive Wages
Illinois State University non-teaching staff have been striking for four weeks as union leaders and university administrators remain at an impasse over wages and retroactive pay, with the strike becoming a campaign issue in the governor's race.
April 29, 20267th Circuit Rejects Madigan's Argument, Upholds Corruption Conviction as 'Not Politics As Usual'
Federal appeals court rejects former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's claim that his corruption conviction was normal politics, calling the evidence overwhelming in a ruling that upheld all 10 guilty verdicts.
April 28, 2026gun controlIllinois Supreme Court Weighs Challenge to Gun Possession Law for Felons
Illinois Supreme Court heard arguments in a case challenging whether people with nonviolent felony convictions can be barred from owning firearms under state law, with legal arguments centered on Second Amendment standards established in the 2022 Bruen Supreme Court ruling.
April 27, 2026millionaires taxIllinois House Defers Millionaires Tax to 2028 While Advancing Voting Rights Amendment
Illinois House fails to pass millionaire tax amendment while advancing voting rights protection measure
April 27, 2026data centersIllinois Lawmakers Debate Data Center Regulations as Energy and Water Concerns Mount
Illinois lawmakers debate the POWER Act to regulate data centers amid concerns about rising energy costs, water usage, and grid capacity. The bill requires developers to pay for their own renewable energy and grid upgrades, while also mandating water usage transparency. Governor Pritzker proposes a two-year pause on data center tax credits.
April 27, 2026police misconductPaul Vallas: Chicago Police Misconduct Lawsuits Bleeding Hundreds of Millions in Taxpayer Money
Illinois Policy Institute adviser Paul Vallas says prosecutorial policy and mass exonerations have created a pipeline of expensive litigation costing Chicago hundreds of millions in taxpayer money.
April 27, 2026Chicago Public SchoolsCPS Reaches Compromise With Chicago Teachers Union on May Day Plans
Chicago Public Schools reached a compromise with the Chicago Teachers Union to keep schools open on May 1 while allowing optional civic engagement activities, including field trips to a pro-labor rally at Union Park.
April 26, 2026budgetIllinois Lawmakers Rush Through $55.2 Billion Budget as Partisan Battle Continues
Illinois lawmakers approved a record $55.2 billion budget for fiscal year 2026 after partisan debates in the House and Senate, sending the spending plan to Gov. JB Pritzker for his signature.
April 26, 2026Cook County Judge to Rule on Special Prosecutor Demand for Operation Midway Blitz Investigation
A Cook County judge will rule on May 11 whether to appoint a special prosecutor to investigate alleged Operation Midway Blitz abuses by federal immigration agents during the Trump administration.
April 26, 2026immigrationJudge Set To Rule On Special Prosecutor Demand For Operation Midway Blitz Investigation
Cook County Circuit Judge Erica Reddick will rule by May 11 on a petition from 200+ community members and officials calling for a special prosecutor to investigate alleged crimes by federal agents during Operation Midway Blitz. State's Attorney Eileen O'Neill Burke's office says the petition is frivolous and contains baseless allegations.
April 25, 2026Illinois Senate Debates Governor's Affordable Housing Plan as Municipal Leaders Fight for Local Control
Illinois Senate lawmakers debated Governor Pritzker's BUILD affordable housing plan as municipal leaders pushed back on state zoning changes, citing concerns about local control and gentrification.
April 24, 2026SpringfieldSpringfield Tourism Surges as Downtown Businesses Struggle Amid Hotel Closure and Fire Damage
Springfield sees record tourism but downtown businesses struggle as the Wyndham hotel closure and Adams Street fire reduce foot traffic to historic downtown businesses.
April 24, 2026Illinois HouseIllinois House Speaker Welch Defends Silence on Ousted Caucus Member Harry Benton
Illinois House Speaker Emanuel Welch defends his decision not to discuss the ouster of Rep. Harry Benton from the House Democratic caucus, citing due process and victim protection. Republicans have called for transparency on the matter, which involves sexual harassment allegations according to multiple sources.
April 24, 2026data centersIllinois Lawmakers Push Data Center Water Transparency Bill Amid AI Boom Concerns
Illinois lawmakers are pushing the POWER Act, which would require data centers to report water usage and use efficient cooling methods as the state attracts AI companies.
April 23, 2026Barbara Flynn Currie, Illinois First Woman Majority Leader, Dies at 85
Barbara Flynn Currie, Illinois first woman House majority leader, dies at 85. She led impeachment of ex-Gov. Rod Blagojevich and paved the way for 78 women in the General Assembly.
April 23, 2026budgetIllinois Democrats Weigh Budget Options as Strong Revenue Growth Meets Uncertain Future
Illinois Democrats weigh budget options as FY26 revenue jumps $1.5 billion but FY27 outlook remains uncertain, with some progressives pushing for a millionaire's tax amendment.
April 23, 2026preschoolIllinois Preschool Funding Stalls Despite Governor's Expansion Efforts
A new report finds Illinois preschool funding is stalling despite the governor's expansion efforts under the Smart Start initiative, with the state ranked 22nd in funding and 20th in 4-year-old enrollment nationally.
April 23, 2026school busIllinois Eases School Bus Driver Shortage Through Hiring Reforms and Expanded Workforce
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias worked with transportation providers to remove hiring barriers and expand the school bus driver workforce, stabilizing a decades-long shortage.
April 23, 2026redistrictingIllinois House Passes Redistricting Amendment to Protect Minority Voting Rights From Federal Changes
Illinois House passes constitutional amendment requiring redistricting to prioritize minority representation as lawmakers fear federal Voting Rights Act protections will be eliminated by Supreme Court.
April 23, 2026insuranceIllinois Auto Insurance Study Reveals Credit, ZIP Code and Age Drive Premiums for Safe Drivers
A new Secretary of State study reveals Illinois drivers with clean records pay higher auto insurance premiums due to credit, ZIP code and age factors beyond their control, fueling push for Senate Bill 1486 insurance rate oversight.
April 22, 2026infrastructureIllinois Work Zone Crashes Rise as State Agencies Launch Safety Campaign
Illinois state agencies launch work zone safety campaign as crashes and injuries rise during construction season.
April 22, 2026credit cardsIllinois Credit Card Law Battle Escalates as July Deadline Approaches
Illinois retailers and banks clash over first-in-nation swipe fee ban as legal challenge reaches Supreme Court possibility with July deadline looming.
April 22, 2026BearsIllinois House Unveils New Version of Bears Megaprojects Bill With Property Tax Relief Provisions
The Illinois House advances amended language for a megaprojects bill that would allow the Chicago Bears to negotiate property tax payments while directing half of PILOT receipts toward property tax relief for local homeowners.
April 22, 2026food assistance150,000 Illinois Households Face SNAP Benefit Cuts as Federal Changes Take Effect
An estimated 150,000 Illinois households face SNAP benefit cuts beginning May 1 due to federal changes from H.R. 1. Advocates rallied at the Capitol asking lawmakers to support bills that would provide emergency assistance and extend eligibility to certain immigrant groups.
April 22, 2026plasticIllinois House Passes Bill to Give EPA Power Over Plastic Pellet Spills
Illinois House passes bill giving EPA emergency rulemaking powers to address plastic pellet spills threatening waterways and wildlife across the state
April 22, 2026prediction marketsIllinois Governor Bars State Employees From Using Insider Information In Prediction Markets Amid Federal Regulatory Battle
Illinois Gov. Pritzker issued an executive order banning state employees from using insider information to bet on prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi, amid a federal lawsuit challenging Illinois' regulatory authority over these platforms.
April 22, 2026ebikesIllinois Senate Passes E-Bike Bill to Regulate High-Speed Electric Bikes and Scooters
Illinois Senate unanimously passes SB 3336 to regulate high-speed electric bikes and scooters, requiring licenses, registration and insurance for devices exceeding 28 mph, with law taking effect January 2027.
April 21, 2026educationCPS Parents Oppose May Day Agreement After Deal Allows Civic Action in Schools
Chicago Public Schools parents oppose a May Day agreement that allows civic engagement activities in classrooms, retaining attorneys after the Chicago Teachers Union reaches a compromise with the district.
April 21, 2026cannabisIllinois Awards $32 Million in Forgivable Loans to 95 Social Equity Cannabis Businesses
Illinois provides $32 million in forgivable loans to 95 social equity cannabis businesses through the state's Cannabis Social Equity Loan Program, including craft growers, dispensaries, infusers, and transporters.
April 21, 2026educationIllinois Voucher Program Sends Tax Dollars to Schools That Discriminate Against Disabled and LGBTQ Students
Illinois state funding through the Invest in Kids program sends over $250 million to private schools that discriminate against students with disabilities and LGBTQ students, while nearby public schools face severe funding shortfalls.
April 21, 2026workforceIllinois Governor Pritzker Establishes State Attainment Working Group to Set Postsecondary Education Goals Through 2040
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker established an Illinois State Attainment Working Group to set postsecondary education goals through 2040 and prepare the state's workforce for future jobs.
April 21, 2026infrastructureIllinois Diverts $308 Million From Road Fund Despite Poor Road Conditions
Illinois lawmakers are diverting $308 million from the Road Fund to cover budget gaps even as the state ranks 31st in road quality. The $171 million in diverted motor fuel tax revenues were supposed to finish the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois infrastructure plan.
April 21, 2026IllinoisIllinois State Representative Faces Death Threats After Political Disagreement, Highlights Growing Violence Against Officials
A Homer Glen man pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct after submitting threatening messages through state Rep. Nicole La Ha's website, targeting her and her family. The case highlights growing political violence against Illinois public officials.
April 21, 2026credit cardsFederal Government Moves to Block Illinois Credit Card Swipe Fee Ban, Siding with Banks
The federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency is attempting to preempt an Illinois law banning swipe fees on taxes and tips, siding with financial institutions that have fought the state law in court.
April 21, 2026ISBEIllinois State Board of Education Approves New School Accountability Labels After Federal Approval
The Illinois State Board of Education approved new school accountability labels that will be implemented this fall after federal approval.
April 20, 2026national guardFederal Judge Dismisses Illinois Lawsuit Over National Guard Deployment, Ends Legal Battle From Operation Midway Blitz Era
A federal judge dismissed Illinois' lawsuit over National Guard deployment after the Trump administration rescinded the orders, ending a legal battle that began during the Operation Midway Blitz era.
April 20, 2026healthcareIllinois State Employee Health Costs to Rise 9% in Fiscal Year 2027
Illinois state employee health insurance costs are projected to rise 9% in fiscal year 2027, adding $380 million to the state's budget as the workforce grows and healthcare inflation continues.
April 20, 2026ComEd FourFederal Appeals Court Overturns Two ComEd Four Convictions in Illinois Corruption Case
Federal appeals court overturns two convictions in the ComEd Four bribery case, ordering immediate release of former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore and lobbyist Michael McClain while granting them new trials.
April 20, 2026electionsGovernor Pritzker Secretly Funneled $10 Million Into Juliana Stratton Senate Primary
New federal campaign finance filings reveal Governor JB Pritzker secretly funneled $10 million through a super PAC to boost Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton's Democratic Senate primary win against veteran Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi.
April 20, 2026cryptoIllinois Enacts Crypto Consumer Protection Laws to Combat $272 Million in Fraud
Illinois Governor Pritzker signed two bills creating new crypto consumer protection rules after state residents lost $272 million to cryptocurrency fraud last year.
April 20, 2026electionsJuliana Stratton Wins Illinois Senate Primary Over Raja Krishnamoorthi
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton defeats Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi in the Democratic U.S. Senate primary, winning in Cook County while the candidates run even in the rest of the state.
April 20, 2026utilitiesIllinois House Passes Utility Bill Transparency Measure to Help Consumers Understand Electricity Charges
Illinois House unanimously passes utility bill transparency measure requiring the Illinois Commerce Commission to publish detailed information on electricity bill charges starting January 2027.
April 19, 2026Illinois governorIllinois Governor Pritzker Demands $8.6 Billion Trump Tariff Refund After White House Attacks Blue State Governor
Governor JB Pritzker demanded an $8.6 billion refund check from President Donald Trump after the White House attacked the Illinois governor for his comments. The Supreme Court ruled Trump's tariffs illegal in February and the refund portal opens April 20.
April 19, 2026gun controlGun Owners Rally at Illinois Statehouse as Democrats Push Unconstitutional Gun Bills
Gun owners rally at Illinois Statehouse as Republican legislators address crowd against Democratic gun bills
April 19, 2026librariesIllinois Bill Would Prevent Libraries From Paying Higher Prices for Digital Books and Audio Books
Illinois House Bill 5236 would prevent libraries from paying higher prices than consumers for digital books and audio books, allowing libraries to set their own loan periods.
April 19, 2026credit cardsFederal Government Moves to Block Illinois Credit Card Swipe Fee Ban
Federal Office of the Comptroller of the Currency plans to preempt Illinois law banning swipe fees on tax and tip portions of credit card transactions. State Rep. Margaret Croke, who won the comptroller primary, supports repealing the law.
April 19, 2026votingIllinois House Passes Bill Requiring High Schools to Offer Voter Registration to Students
The Illinois House passed legislation requiring high schools to offer nonpartisan voter registration to eligible students beginning in the 2026-2027 school year. The bill, named for the late Rev. Jesse Jackson, now moves to the Senate.
April 19, 2026millionaires taxIllinois Millionaires Tax Amendment Faces May 3 Deadline as Democrats Split Over Property Tax Relief vs School Funding
Illinois lawmakers face a May 3 deadline to place a millionaires tax constitutional amendment on the November ballot. House Democrats are divided between Rep. La Shawn Ford's plan to use all proceeds for property tax relief and Rep. Natalie Manley's proposal to split funds between schools and property tax rebates. House Speaker Chris Welch supports the concept but has not endorsed either amendment.
April 19, 2026IllinoisIllinois Senate Bill Would Require Enhanced Training to Detect Staged Death Scenes
State Sen. Craig Wilcox introduced Senate Bill 1781 to require law enforcement training on detecting staged death scenes that may be homicides misclassified as suicides
April 19, 2026Illinois Lawmakers Propose Hospital Closure Bill After West Suburban Shutdown
Illinois lawmakers have introduced legislation requiring hospitals to submit financial resolution plans before closing or cutting services, following the controversial shutdown of West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park.
April 18, 2026budgetIllinois Budget Hearing Reveals Controversy Over Foreign Investments and Soaring Health Costs
Illinois lawmakers grilled Treasurer Michael Frerichs over foreign bond investments while hearing testimony about soaring state employee health costs and a growing workforce. Revenue collections exceeded expectations through the first three quarters of fiscal year 2026.
April 18, 2026social mediaIllinois House Passes Social Media Bill That Would Ban Addictive Algorithms and Age Verification
The Illinois House passed House Bill 5511, a social media regulation bill that would require age verification on all devices and ban addictive algorithms for minors under 18. The measure now moves to the Senate for consideration.
April 18, 2026data centersIllinoisans Overwhelmingly Support Data Center Regulation as POWER Act Advances
New polling shows 68 percent of Illinois voters support the POWER Act, legislation that would require data centers to cover their own energy and water costs rather than passing expenses to utility customers.
April 18, 2026electionsAIPAC Loses in Illinois Ninth District Despite $4 Million Spending
Pro-Israel lobbying groups spent millions in the Illinois Ninth District primary but failed to buy Daniel Biss who won with 29.6 percent of the vote while their candidate Laura Fine finished third with 20.4 percent.
April 18, 2026Barbara Flynn CurrieBarbara Flynn Currie, First Woman to Lead Illinois House Majority, Dies at 85
Barbara Flynn Currie, the first woman to serve as Illinois House Majority Leader and a 40-year veteran of the General Assembly, has died at age 85. Colleagues remember her as a trailblazer who opened doors for generations of women and as an iconic public servant who championed progressive causes including impeachment, gun control, and education reform.
April 18, 2026bipaSeventh Circuit Ruling Ends Per Scan Damages in Illinois Biometric Privacy Law Cases
Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals applies 2024 BIPA amendments retroactively, ending per scan damages and reducing liability for Illinois employers in biometric privacy lawsuits
April 18, 2026campaign financeIllinois State Board of Elections Dismisses Campaign Finance Complaint Against Normal Mayor Candidate
The Illinois State Board of Elections dismissed a campaign finance complaint against Normal Town Council member Kathleen Lorenz, ruling that the allegations did not meet the legal burden of proof.
April 18, 2026housingIllinois Housing Bill Would Force Towns to Accept Multiunit Buildings and Backyard Homes
Illinois Governor Pritzker is pushing a statewide housing reform plan that would force towns to allow multiunit developments and backyard homes, sparking opposition from local officials who say it preempts their authority.
April 17, 2026millionaires taxIllinois House Leadership Endorses Millionaires Tax as Democrats Debate Property Tax Relief vs School Funding
House Speaker Chris Welch endorses millionaires tax as Democrats split over spending between property tax relief and school funding, with constitutional amendment proposals heading toward May 3 deadline for November ballot
April 17, 2026governorDarren Bailey Wins Illinois GOP Governor Primary on Frugal Campaign, Faces Frundamental Challenge in General Election
Darren Bailey won the Illinois GOP governor primary on a shoestring budget, raising less than half a million dollars and spending only about $2.30 per vote to defeat better-funded rivals. His frugal campaign faces a fundamental challenge in the general election against wealthy incumbent JB Pritzker, who has spent $350 million in previous runs.
April 17, 2026menopauseIllinois Senate Passes Menopause Training Bill to Address Healthcare Provider Bias
Illinois Senate passes bill allowing healthcare providers to fulfill implicit bias training requirements with menopause education, addressing gaps in medical care for midlife women.
April 17, 2026healthcareIllinois Senate Passes Seizure Detection Device Coverage Bill as Advocates Push for Insurance Mandate
Illinois Senate passes bill requiring insurance coverage for seizure detection devices with $50 annual cost sharing cap
April 17, 2026educationIllinois Legislature Advances Dozens of Bills Including Latin American History Mandate
Illinois House passes bill requiring Latin American history curriculum in public schools, along with dozens of other measures advancing before May 31 legislative deadline
April 17, 2026IllinoisIllinois Legislature Races to Turn In Balanced Budget Amid Partisan Budget Battle
Illinois state lawmakers face a May 31 deadline to turn in a balanced budget as federal uncertainty and partisan disagreements over revenue and tax cuts complicate the fiscal process.
April 17, 2026e-bikeIllinois Senate Passes Unanimous E-Bike and E-Scooter Safety Bill to Create Uniform Statewide Regulations
The Illinois Senate unanimously passed a comprehensive e-bike and e-scooter safety bill on Wednesday that would create uniform statewide regulations for electric micromobility devices. The measure now moves to the House for consideration.
April 17, 2026property taxIllinois Republicans and Democrats Clash Over Property Tax Relief as Millionaires Tax Battle Intensifies
Illinois Republicans and Democrats are at odds over property tax relief as Cook County property taxes have grown 182 percent since 1995, outpacing inflation and wage growth. House Speaker Chris Welch supports a millionaires tax that could raise $4.5 billion annually, but Democrats split on whether all revenue should go to property tax rebates or be shared with public schools.
April 15, 2026Illinois State Board Approves Sale of Olympia Fields Hospital to Prime Healthcare Despite Past Concerns
Illinois state board approves sale of Franciscan Health Olympia Fields hospital to Prime Healthcare for $7 million despite concerns about Prime's track record at other Illinois hospitals
April 15, 2026autonomous vehiclesIllinois Unions Rally Against Waymo Autonomous Vehicle Bill as Tech Giants Push for Driverless Roads
Illinois unions are rallying against state legislation that would legalize autonomous vehicles, arguing the bill threatens worker jobs and public safety. The autonomous vehicle bill has been held up in committee as lawmakers address concerns over safety, insurance, and employment.
April 14, 2026healthcareIllinois ACA Marketplace Slashes Premium Hikes as State Launches Tax Time Enrollment Program
Illinois ACA marketplace moved 78,000 enrollees to cheaper plans and slashed average premium hikes through strategic plan selection. The state also launched a new Tax Time Easy Enrollment program allowing residents to check a box on their tax return to get health insurance information.
April 14, 2026hospital closureIllinois Lawmakers Probe West Suburban Hospital Closure as Eviction Notice Sparks New Questions
Illinois state officials are investigating West Suburban Medical Center's closure after an eviction notice targeting the hospital's CEO raises questions about the facility's financial collapse. State Rep. LaShawn Ford says multiple departments are probing finances as the hospital's future remains uncertain.
April 14, 2026mental healthIllinois Mental Health Crisis Care Bill Would Charge Insurance Companies $33 Million to Fund Behavioral Health Services
Illinois House Bill 4785 would require private health insurance companies to pay a surcharge to fund mental health crisis care services, mirroring similar Massachusetts legislation that generates $33.7 million annually.
April 14, 2026millionaires taxMillionaire Tax Proposal Could Fund Property Tax Relief and Public Education, Study Shows
A new study shows a 3 percent surtax on Illinois millionaires could generate $3.8 billion annually to fund property tax relief and education, though constitutional changes would be required to implement the tax.
April 14, 2026Chicago BearsChicago Bears Stadium Deal Hinges on Controversial Property Tax Bill That Critics Say Will Hurt Homeowners
The Chicago Bears have given Illinois lawmakers time to work through a legislative maze, but critics warn the property tax bill at the heart of the stadium deal could make Illinois property tax problems worse for homeowners who already pay the highest rates in the nation.
April 14, 2026Illinois HouseIllinois House Passes 133 Bills Including Junk Fee Ban, Cash Payment Requirement and Abortion Grant Fund
The Illinois House passed 133 bills including consumer protection measures like a junk fee ban and cash payment requirement, an abortion grant fund, and in-state tuition changes. Bills now move to Senate consideration.
April 14, 2026immigrationIllinois House Passes Landmark Immigration Detention Bill That Would Block New Federal Facilities Within 1500 Feet of Homes and Schools
The Illinois House passed House Bill 5024, which would prohibit new federal immigration detention centers from operating within 1,500 feet of homes, schools and other public places. The bill passed on a 72-35-2 partisan vote and now moves to the Senate.
April 14, 2026Illinois Revenue Collections Exceed Expectations as Trump Budget Threatens Future State Funding
Illinois state revenues exceeded expectations in Q3 2026 with $1.571 billion growth, though corporate tax collections still declined due to federal cuts. Trump's proposed 2027 budget threatens future funding for Illinois schools, infrastructure, and social programs.
April 14, 2026data centersIllinois Lawmakers Push POWER Act to Force Data Centers to Pay Their Own Energy Costs
Illinois lawmakers introduced the POWER Act to require data centers to pay their own energy and water costs. A poll of 800 voters showed 75 percent support when details were explained. The bill addresses concerns about rising utility bills and environmental impacts from data centers.
April 14, 2026Faculty Strike at University of Illinois Springfield Enters Eleventh Day Amid Compensation Dispute
Faculty members at University of Illinois Springfield continue strike over salary increases as university runs $19 million deficit and union demands 2.6 percent raise in current fiscal year.
April 14, 2026West Suburban Medical CenterIllinois State Agencies Investigate West Suburban Medical Center Closure Amid Millions in Taxpayer Loans
Illinois state agencies including the Department of Public Health, Department of Human Services, and Healthcare and Family Services are investigating West Suburban Medical Center's closure after the facility received at least $30 million in taxpayer loans since 2023. State Rep. La Shawn Ford says the hospital owes more than $10.2 million in property debt and community leaders are calling for Governor JB Pritzker to intervene and reopen the safety-net facility.
April 14, 2026millionaires taxIllinois Millionaires Tax Debate Intensifies as Democrats Split Over Property Tax Relief and School Funding
Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch supports a 3 percent tax on millionaires but remains neutral as Democrats debate whether to prioritize property tax relief through direct homeowner rebates or split revenue between schools and property tax relief.
April 14, 2026Illinois Senator Unveils Comprehensive AI Protection Package Targeting Privacy, Liability and Safety Risks
Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a comprehensive package of AI legislation targeting product liability, data privacy and safety concerns, with bills set to be heard this week in the Senate AI and Social Media Subcommittee.
April 14, 2026education fundingIllinois State Board of Education Requests $10.9 Billion for Public Schools Despite Property Tax Concerns
The Illinois State Board of Education requested $10.9 billion for Fiscal Year 2027 to fund public schools, citing improved student outcomes under the Evidence-Based Funding system. The proposal includes $350 million for property tax relief grants that Governor JB Pritzker excluded from his budget.
April 14, 2026millionaires taxIllinois House Speaker Pushes Millionaires Tax as Property Tax Relief Looms
Illinois House Speaker pushes millionaires tax as Democrats split over how to divide potential revenue between property tax relief and education funding.
April 14, 2026surveillance pricingIllinois Senator Introduces Bill to Ban Surveillance-Based Price Discrimination
Illinois State Senator Robert Peters introduced Senate Bill 2255 to ban companies from using surveillance data and artificial intelligence to charge different prices to different consumers based on personal information such as browsing history and behavioral patterns.
April 14, 2026Illinois legislatureIllinois House Bill Would Redirect University Funding Away from UI to Smaller Schools
Illinois House Bill 1581 would redirect $135 million in annual university funding to smaller state schools through a needs-based formula, sparking opposition from the University of Illinois System which educates over half of Illinois public university students
April 14, 2026Illinois House Passes Consumer Protection Package Including Junk Fee Ban and Abortion Access Fund
The Illinois House passed 81 bills Thursday, including a junk fee ban, abortion access fund, cash payment requirement and digital coupon access measures. The legislation represents Gov. Pritzker's consumer protection priorities and now moves to the Senate.
April 14, 2026cell phone banIllinois House Committee Advances Pritzker's Cell Phone Ban Bill for Public Schools
House Education Committee unanimously advanced Senate Bill 2427 requiring school districts to ban student cell phone use during instructional time, with exceptions for emergencies and educational purposes. The bill would mandate bell-to-bell policies by the 2027-2028 school year.
April 14, 2026junk fee banIllinois House Passes Junk Fee Ban to Protect Consumers From Hidden Charges
The Illinois House passed a junk fee ban that requires businesses to display all mandatory fees upfront. The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Bob Morgan, D-Highland Park, aims to protect consumers from hidden charges that cost an average family $3,000 annually. The bill now moves to the Senate.
April 14, 2026cell phone banIllinois House Committee Advances Cell Phone Ban Bill to Require Bell-to-Bell Policy in Schools
The Illinois House Education Policy Committee unanimously advanced a bill requiring bell-to-bell cell phone policies in schools, sending it to the House floor for potential action after the Senate passed it last April.
April 14, 2026unemployment insuranceIllinois Proposes Limiting Unemployment Disqualification Period for Striking Workers, Draws Business Opposition
Illinois proposal would limit unemployment disqualification period for striking workers from two weeks instead of full strike duration, but faces strong opposition from business groups concerned about costs.
April 13, 2026property taxIllinois Property Taxes Rise 27 Percent Under Governor Pritzker, Pension Debt Drives School District Levies Higher
Illinois property taxes have increased 27 percent under Governor Pritzker as pension obligations consume nearly 40 percent of the education budget, forcing school districts to raise levies to fill the funding gap.
April 13, 2026education fundingIllinois Education Officials Seek $10.9 Billion for Schools Despite Property Tax Concerns
Illinois State Board of Education seeks $10.9 billion for FY 2027 to fund public schools, representing a net increase of nearly half a billion dollars after accounting for early childhood grant transfers. Despite graduation rate improvements, Republicans question why property taxes remain high despite Evidence-Based Funding increases.
April 13, 2026comptrollerMargaret Croke Wins Illinois Comptroller Primary in Narrow Victory Over Karina Villa
State Rep. Margaret Croke was declared the winner in the Democratic primary for Illinois comptroller with 34.6 percent of the vote, narrowly beating progressive challenger Karina Villa who received 32.3 percent.
April 13, 2026abortion access fundIllinois House Passes Abortion Access Fund Bill to Help Uninsured Patients
Illinois House Democrats advanced legislation Thursday that would create a state-funded abortion access program for uninsured and underinsured patients, drawing sharp opposition from Republicans who call it an overreach of state authority.
April 13, 2026Illinois Senate Bill Would Mandate Infant Allergy Coverage, Unclear Cost Impact Looms
Illinois State Sen. Darby Hills backs Senate Bill 4182 requiring insurance coverage for infant egg and peanut allergen supplements, though cost impact remains unclear
April 13, 2026environmental legislationIllinois Environmental Bills Face Uphill Battle as Spring Session Winds Down
Hundreds of environmental advocates rallied at the Illinois State Capitol to push three bills before the spring legislative session ends on May 31. The POWER Act would regulate data centers, the Wetlands Protection Act would create permits for construction affecting wetlands, and the Polystyrene Foam Foodware Ban would phase out single-use plastic containers. Of the three bills, only the polystyrene ban has passed in either chamber. All three face an uphill battle to passage before the end of the spring session, with advocates planning to return in the fall veto session.
April 13, 2026Asian carpTrump Administration Moves Asian Carp Project From Illinois, Governor Calls It Political Stunt
Trump administration moves $1.15 billion Asian carp barrier project from Illinois to Michigan. Governor Pritzker calls it political stunt and vows legal action if federal funding commitments are broken.
April 13, 2026Trump Administration Sues Illinois Over Prediction Market Regulations
The Trump administration has sued Illinois to stop it from applying gambling laws to prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket. The CFTC argues these platforms are commodities under federal authority, not gambling. Illinois says this threatens consumer protections and opens doors to insider trading.
April 13, 2026millionaires taxNew Study Says Millionaires Tax Could Fund Illinois Property Tax Relief and Public Education
A new study from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute and University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign projects that a 3 percent surtax on millionaires could generate $3.8 billion annually by 2027 and up to $5 billion by 2033, providing property tax relief or fully funding public schools.
April 13, 2026immigrationIllinois House Passes Rental Fee Limits, Detention Center Regulations and Immigration Bill
Illinois House advances rental fee caps for detention centers, stricter oversight of immigration facilities, and expanded protections for Dreamers as part of a package of 81 bills.
April 13, 2026junk fee banIllinois House Passes 81 Bills Including Junk Fee Ban, Abortion Access Fund and Consumer Protection Measures
The Illinois House passed 81 bills including a junk fee ban, abortion access fund, cash payment requirement, digital coupon access mandate, in-state tuition expansion, and Narcan availability for incarcerated persons.
April 13, 2026housingIllinois Housing Reform Bill Would Allow Four-Flats and Multi-Unit Buildings Across State
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker unveiled a housing reform plan that would loosen zoning restrictions statewide to allow four-flats and multi-unit developments. The proposal aims to address the state's 142,000-unit housing shortage by enabling accessory dwelling units and larger apartment buildings in residential neighborhoods.
April 13, 2026Illinois State Board of Education Requests $10.9 Billion for Public Schools Amid Property Tax Debate
The Illinois State Board of Education requested $10.9 billion for public schools, including $300 million in new spending and $50 million for property tax relief grants. The request marks the 10th year under the Evidence-Based Funding formula, which aims to shift costs from local property taxes to state funding.
April 13, 2026Illinois University Funding Bill Divides State Universities Over Equitable Formula
Illinois lawmakers are considering a new funding formula that would provide $135 million annually for 15 years to public universities based on need, with smaller schools receiving larger percentage increases while the University of Illinois System opposes the measure.
April 13, 2026university fundingIllinois Legislators Battle University Funding Reform as Tuition Skyrockets
Illinois legislators debate two competing approaches to fix a broken university funding system. Senate Majority Leader Lightford proposes a needs-based formula. Representative Keicher calls for reviewing university spending to identify waste. State funding has dropped from covering 75% of costs to 28% while tuition has more than doubled.
April 13, 2026abortion access fundIllinois House Advances Abortion Access Fund, Junk Fee Ban and Consumer Protection Package
The Illinois House voted Thursday to advance six consumer protection bills to the Senate, including a plan to create an abortion access fund using Affordable Care Act provisions, a junk fee ban that failed last year, and measures addressing cash payments, grocery coupon access, in-state tuition, and Narcan for incarcerated persons.
April 13, 2026abortion access fundIllinois House Passes Abortion Access Fund, Junk Fee Ban and Consumer Protection Bills
The Illinois House passed multiple bills Thursday including an abortion access fund, junk fee ban, and consumer protection measures. The legislation advances to the Senate for further consideration.
April 13, 2026Trump EPA Reversal Threatens Illinois Coal Plant Closures, Legal Battle Escalates
Trump EPA Reversal Threatens Illinois Coal Plant Closures, Legal Battle Escalates
April 13, 2026housingIllinois Governor Unveils Sweeping Housing Plan to Address Severe Statewide Shortage
Governor Pritzker proposes statewide zoning reforms to address Illinois housing shortage, allowing more multi-unit developments while facing local opposition.
April 13, 2026millionaires taxIllinois Millionaires Tax Could Fund Property Tax Relief and Public Schools, Study Finds
A new study found that a 3 percent surtax on Illinois millionaires could generate billions to fund property tax relief or public education. The proposal requires constitutional amendment approval from lawmakers and voters.
April 13, 2026Illinois Supreme CourtIllinois Supreme Court Asks Federal Judge to Affirm Authority to Remove Judge for Political Column
The Illinois Supreme Court is asking a federal judge to affirm its constitutional authority to remove a Cook County judge from traffic court after he published a pro-Trump column while retired. The case raises questions about judicial immunity, free speech rights, and the balance between maintaining public confidence in the judiciary and protecting First Amendment interests.
April 13, 2026Illinois Supreme CourtIllinois Supreme Court Seeks Federal Ruling on Authority to Remove Judge Over Political Column
The Illinois Supreme Court is seeking a federal ruling that it has constitutional authority to remove Judge James Brown from a temporary traffic court assignment after he published a column supporting President Trump while retired. The case raises questions about judicial immunity and the proper procedures for removing judges in Illinois.
April 13, 2026consumer protectionIllinois House Passes Junk Fee Ban After Three Years, Sends Bill to Senate
The Illinois House passed House Bill 228 after three years, banning hidden junk fees that cost families an average of $3,000 annually. The bill now moves to the Senate.
April 13, 2026