Ill State News

SPRINGFIELD – As 2025 ends, the Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) is proud to share a year of impactful enforcement actions and successful resolutions that protected workers’ rights and ensured fair compensation across the state. From recovering unpaid wages – approximately $2.7 million year-to-date – to enforcing child labor and paid leave laws, IDOL has remained steadfast in

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois has been awarded $193,418,216 million per year for five years through the $50 billion federal Rural Healthcare Transformation Program (RHTP) fund, which will be utilized to expand equitable access to healthcare and to eliminate barriers to care that many residents of rural communities face. All 50 states applied for the RHTP funding,

SPRINGFIELD – Noted author and three-time Lincoln Prize winner Allen Guelzo will be the featured speaker at the Abraham Lincoln Association (ALA) Birthday Banquet on Thursday, February 12 at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Springfield. Three additional renowned Lincoln authors and historians will highlight the free Benjamin P. Thomas Symposium the following day, Friday,

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) have released data highlighting record-breaking economic development milestones from 2025. Guided by Governor Pritzker’s strategic economic growth plan, Illinois reached a record $13 billion in incentivized investments, delivered record tourism accomplishments, and marked major milestones in key sectors, including quantum, while

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced that several new laws designed to strengthen public health initiatives will take effect with the start of the New Year, January 1, 2026.   “The New Year offers a critical opportunity to advance public health and protect Illinois families through new laws and innovative strategies,” said

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and law enforcement agencies throughout the state are joining forces to increase patrols focused on impaired drivers, seat belt violations, distracted driving and speeding as 2025 comes to a close. Whether you’re traveling a short or long distance the goal is for everyone to arrive to

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), Illinois’ leading small business advocacy organization, recently announced the launch of its new, comprehensive NFIB Voting Hub to ensure that small business owners nationwide are equipped to participate fully in upcoming state and federal elections.   “Illinois small business owners are constantly battling complicated regulations and burdensome

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Following a successful trial in 2025, the Illinois State Fair is transitioning to digital ticketing for 2026. This modernization will provide guests with a more convenient, secure, and streamlined entry process. “The Illinois State Fair is stepping into the future,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “Digital ticketing represents our commitment to

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is sharing the following upcoming events and noteworthy items for January 2026.   Jan. 1 First Day Hikes Illinois State Parks Statewide Take a hike at one of Illinois’ state parks and kick off the New Year in nature. Participating parks will have stickers for visitors.