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.
Illinois 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