The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Illinois Office of Tourism recently reported that Illinois welcomed 112 million domestic and international visitors in 2023, resulting in $47 billion in visitor spending. This is an increase of 1 million visitors and over $3 […]
Legislation has been signed into law to educate new drivers about vehicles hauling hazardous materials. This legislation was introduced following a tragic accident in Illinois involving a tanker carrying hazardous substances, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. In response to the incident, Senator Steve McClure […]
With students back in the classroom and a new school year underway, the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is reminding eligible taxpayers that they may claim back-to-school expenses for their K-12 students on their 2024 individual income tax returns. With the high cost of living and […]
The Illinois Supreme Court recently upheld a lower court’s ruling that blocked Senate Bill 2412, a controversial law signed by Governor Pritzker in May. The bill aimed to halt the practice of slating candidates to fill ballot vacancies for the current election cycle, even as candidates […]
While the Illinois State Fair in Springfield may have ended, the Du Quoin State Fair is just getting started. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Du Quoin State Fair was held on Friday, August 23, followed by the annual Twilight Parade. The 2024 Du Quoin State Fair […]
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is offering $5 million in tourism funding through the Route 66 Grant Program ($4 million) and the International Tourism Grant Program ($1 million). These grants aim to boost tourism and cultural preservation across Illinois. Route 66 Grant […]
A new measure was recently signed into law to enhance transparency and public access to information regarding proposed tax levy changes by local governments. Senate Bill 3567, sponsored by Senator Erica Harriss, amends Illinois’ Truth in Taxation law to require taxing bodies to prominently display notices on or near the […]
Illinois drivers will soon have the option to choose between a four-year or eight-year driver’s license, thanks to new legislation recently signed into law. Senate Bill 275, sponsored by Senator Dan McConchie, requires the Secretary of State to establish rules for this process by January 1, […]
The Illinois State Police have officially concluded their investigation into the Heinz Funeral Home in Carlinville, with findings now in the hands of the Macoupin County State’s Attorney. This investigation highlights the importance of oversight within the funeral home industry, particularly in the handling of human […]
The U.S. economy is showing signs of strain, with new data revealing fewer jobs added in 2023 and early 2024 than originally reported. The U.S. Department of Labor’s revisions cut job growth estimates by 28 percent, while at the same time, July numbers show Illinois is now […]