Illinois lawmakers have introduced a new bill aimed at enhancing consumer safety by regulating the use of certain chemicals in cosmetic products. The proposed legislation, known as the Chemicals in Cosmetic Products Act, was introduced by Rep. Sonya M. Harper. This bill seeks to prohibit the manufacture, sale, delivery, holding, […]
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced significant updates to its identity proofing and direct deposit processing procedures. Starting March 31, 2025, the SSA will enforce stricter identity proofing protocols for benefit claims and direct deposit changes. Beneficiaries and applicants who cannot verify their identity online through their “My Social […]
by Ben Szalinski, Capitol News Illinois March 21, 2025 TAYLORVILLE — Voters must put pressure on congressional Republicans to oppose any budget bill that makes major cuts to services, according to U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill. Lawmakers are set to return to Washington, D.C., this coming week, where they will […]
The United States District Court for the District of Maryland has granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in a case involving the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO, and others against the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The order, issued on […]
President Donald Trump signed a sweeping executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education, fulfilling a campaign promise to return educational authority to state and local governments. While the order has generated significant attention, its immediate effects remain uncertain as only Congress has the authority to fully abolish a […]
by Peter Hancock, Capitol News Illinois March 20, 2025 SPRINGFIELD — One of Gov. JB Pritzker’s top legislative initiatives stalled in the General Assembly this week when the chair of the House Higher Education Committee refused to call a vote on a bill that would authorize community colleges to offer […]
The Federal Reserve announced its latest monetary policy decision, opting to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 4.25% to 4.50%. This decision reflects the Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) ongoing efforts to balance its dual mandate of maximum employment and stable inflation, which remains elevated above the long-term […]
Illinois lawmakers have introduced a bill aimed at simplifying the process of obtaining ongoing medical care for individuals with chronic health conditions. House Bill 3782, introduced by Rep. Sonya M. Harper seeks to amend the Prior Authorization Reform Act by providing more consistent and long-term approval for treatments related to […]
The Illinois General Assembly’s State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid (D-21) has introduced a bill aimed at limiting rent increases in mobile home parks. The proposed legislation, known as the Mobile Home Tenant Protection Act, seeks to cap annual rent hikes at 3% and allows for adjustments based on the consumer price […]
by Molly Parker, Beth Hundsdorfer, Jade Aubrey and UIS Public Affairs Reporting (PAR), Capitol News Illinois March 19, 2025 SPRINGFIELD — After nearly three hours of debate before a packed hearing room, a House committee on Wednesday voted to advance a bill that would impose new requirements on homeschooling, fueling […]
