The Illinois General Assembly is currently reviewing several bills aimed at reforming local government structures, particularly focusing on townships and their roles within the state. These proposed changes could significantly impact how local services are managed and funded across Illinois. The bills were introduced by Illinois Senator Sen. Suzy Glowiak […]
State of Illinois
Lawmakers mull betting on internet gambling while existing industry warns it’ll fold
by Hannah Meisel, Capitol News Illinois March 14, 2025 SPRINGFIELD — In the years since the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily shut down Illinois casinos, video gambling terminals, horse racing and professional sports — just days after legal sports betting went live — the state’s gambling industry has seen an explosion in […]
In remarks to teachers union, Pritzker lashes out at Trump’s education cuts
by Peter Hancock, Capitol News Illinois March 13, 2025 SPRINGFIELD — Gov. JB Pritzker on Thursday delivered more harsh criticism against President Donald Trump’s administration over attempts to drastically downsize, and possibly eliminate, the U.S. Department of Education. His remarks came just two days after the agency abruptly laid off […]
Bill for “Right to Play Act” Introduced in Illinois General Assembly
A bill to allow students to engage in both school and nonschool athletic activities without jeopardizing their eligibility for school sports has been introduced in the Illinois General Assembly. The “Right to Play Act” is expected to benefit students by allowing them to explore different athletic opportunities outside of school […]
Illinois House Rep. Introduces Bill to Regulate AI in Education
Illinois Rep. Laura Faver Dias introduced Illinois House Bill 2503 (HB2503) to create guidelines for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. The bill aims to promote the safe, transparent, and effective integration of AI technologies in Illinois schools. Key Provisions of the Bill HB2503 is designed to take […]
Coalition of Attorneys General Sues Trump Administration Over Department of Education Cuts
A coalition of 20 attorneys general, including Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration in an effort to halt its plans to dismantle the Department of Education. The lawsuit argues that the administration’s actions, which include significant workforce reductions and program cuts, are both […]
Illinois Lawmakers Introduce Bill to Combat Food Deserts and Expand Grocery Access
The Illinois General Assembly has put forward a new bill to address food deserts throughout the state. House Bill 1607, introduced by Rep. Sonya M. Harper calls for the establishment of the Commission on Eliminating Food Deserts. This commission will evaluate existing state initiatives, provide policy recommendations, and advise the […]
With electricity price spikes coming, environmental and industry groups pitch reform
by Andrew Adams, Capitol News Illinois March 4, 2025 Illinois faces potential energy shortfalls and all-but-guaranteed price spikes for northern Illinois this summer, consumer and environmental advocates say. Lawmakers and advocates in Springfield have proposed bills that they say would address their concerns — but it’s unclear whether they’re likely […]
High school student helps draft bill to require opioid overdose medications in Illinois libraries
by Ismael M. Belkoura and Medill Illinois News Bureau, Capitol News Illinois March 6, 2025 ELGIN – High school students generally don’t participate in drafting legislation. Jordan Henry is an exception. A senior at the Illinois Math and Science Academy, the Elgin native is working with her local state representative […]
Trump administration ends reimbursements for Illinois food programs
by Ben Szalinski, Capitol News Illinois March 4, 2025 SPRINGFIELD — The Trump administration has stopped reimbursing Illinois for a program designed to help farmers and supply fresh food to Illinois food banks. The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced Tuesday that changes to federal funding mean Illinois is missing reimbursements […]