Despite new federal data showing Illinois’ Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) error rate continuing to climb, the Pritzker Administration has launched a program offering one-time payments to certain households that recently lost their SNAP benefits, with a cost of $70 million to taxpayers for fiscal year […]
Bipartisan legislation seeking to expand recognition for Illinois veterans was recently signed into law. House Bill 4385 allows eligible veterans and military honorees to receive a second set of military specialty license plates under the same eligibility requirements as their first set. Previously, Illinois law limited eligible veterans […]
Legislation to strengthen standards for Illinois assisted living facilities was signed into law on July 24. House Bill 3392 updates the Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act by improving the admission process for new residents, modernizing care standards, and strengthening accountability for facilities. The law requires […]
Recently signed legislation makes it easier for consumers to use cash for common, everyday purchases. House Bill 4592 creates the Retail Cash Payment Act, requiring businesses such as gas stations, grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants to accept cash for in-person transactions under $500. The law is […]
Legislation was recently signed into law to strengthen transparency and accountability in DCFS investigations involving allegations of child abuse or neglect. House Bill 4242, sponsored by Senator Darby Hills, amends the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act by requiring DCFS to include additional information in written […]
The Illinois Department of Agriculture is encouraging food and agricultural businesses to showcase their products at the inaugural Illinois Product Expo – Chicago, taking place on October 16 and 17 at the Isadore & Sadie Dorin Forum in Chicago. The two-day event is expected to attract […]
Three new laws have been signed to better support Illinois veterans and service members by making it easier to return to college after military service, strengthening recruitment for the Illinois National Guard, and improving access to mental health resources for veterans. The new laws include: · […]
A new report from the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) found that Illinois small business optimism continues to lag behind the national average, reflecting ongoing concerns about the state’s business climate. According to the Illinois Small Business Economic Trends report, the state’s Small Business Optimism […]
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) recently announced plans to significantly reduce operations and staffing at the Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center in Anna. Under the plan, Choate’s general residential units serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities will cease operations by September 30, […]
The Illinois House Special Investigating Committee is scheduled to hold its first hearing on August 6 following the federal indictment of Democratic State Representative Carol Ammons. Ammons faces 10 federal felony charges, including wire fraud, making false statements to federal investigators, and obstruction of justice. The […]