Ill State News

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced $31.5 million in funding as part of the Regional Site Readiness Program – an infrastructure grant program designed to help communities attract businesses, create jobs, and support community renewal. Through the program, entities can apply for funding to begin […]

SPRINGFIELD – Starved Rock State Park, including the Starved Rock Lodge and other park amenities, will remain open to visitors during an $18 million trail improvement project that is expected to get underway this winter and continue through 2026.   A video of the project is available on You Tube at: https://youtu.be/Qop_RuswPJI?si=w0CMTtUIeKIckdlk   The work will

SPRINGFIELD – Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), received his annual flu and COVID-19 immunizations this fall respiratory season during a visit to the DuPage County Health Department last week. The Director also spoke on the importance of receiving these seasonal immunizations and the steps IDPH has taken to encourage

SPRINGFIELD – As hunters across Illinois prepare for the upcoming firearm deer season, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) urges them to use safety harnesses when hunting from tree stands in the field. Tree stands are the No. 1 source of hunting-related accidents and fatalities in Illinois.   In 2024, 70% of hunting incidents reported

By Maggie Dougherty, Capitol News Illinois mdougherty@capitolnewsillinois.com CHICAGO — The Illinois Department of Human Services announced Thursday that residents who received partial or delayed SNAP funds in November will begin receiving full benefits for the month.   In Illinois, nearly 1.9 million people rely on SNAP benefits to buy groceries. Illinois recipients are expected to

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs has announced that Illinois’ Bright Start 529 College Savings Plan has earned its 7th Gold rating from independent analyst Morningstar, firmly placing the plan among the best in the nation.   “To be touted as one of the nation’s best by Morningstar for the seventh time under my

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index declined 0.6 points in October to 98.2 but remained above its 52-year average of 98. The Uncertainty Index fell 12 points from September to 88, the lowest reading of this year.   “Optimism among small businesses declined slightly in October as owners report lower sales and reduced profits,”

SPRINGFIELD– As winter weather approaches, Illinois residents are reminded to prepare for the possibility of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. This week marks National Winter Weather Preparedness Week, a timely opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead for the challenges the season can bring.    The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security

OAK LAWN – On the day before Veterans Day, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned a lost Purple Heart medal to the niece of a World War II veteran who was injured while fighting in France and Germany.   Frerichs reunited Army Rifleman James R. Bennett’s medal with niece Patti Knies during a ceremony at VFW