Ill State News

Illinois calls for federal action for year-round E15 fuel

SPRINGFIELD, IL — The State of Illinois is again calling on the United States Congress and the Trump administration to require year-round sales of E15 fuel. Earlier this year, Governor JB Pritzker sent a letter to Congressional leadership on November 4, 2025, urging nationwide, year-round E15.   “Agriculture is the number one industry in Illinois. Our […]

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Department on Aging seeks nominations for Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is seeking nominations for the 2026 induction class of the Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame, which honors the accomplishments of Illinois residents aged 65 and older.    “Senior Illinoisans across the state carry unique histories, perspectives, and accomplishments that deserve to be celebrated,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I highly

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Krista Phillips of Effingham County selected to reign over 2026 State Fairs during weekend pageant

SPRINGFIELD, IL – Krista Phillips of Effingham County was selected from a field of 75 contestants Sunday evening as the 68th Miss Illinois County Fair Queen and will reign over the 2026 Illinois State Fair and DuQuoin State Fair. Phillips was chosen during the final day of the 115th Annual Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs (IAAF) convention at

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Unemployment rate up in majority of Illinois metro areas for November, Chicago sees continued job growth

SPRINGFIELD – Over-the-year, total nonfarm jobs decreased in 8 metropolitan areas and increased in 4, leading to consecutive months with year-over-year growth in Chicago (17 consecutive months) and Lake (6 consecutive months). Over-the-year, the unemployment rate increased in 10 metro areas and decreased in 2 for the year ending November 2025, according to data released today

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Illinoisans invited to unite in service to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday throughout 2026

SPRINGFIELD – In celebration of the founding of the United States 250 years ago, Governor JB Pritzker is inviting Illinoisans to unite in service by volunteering with organizations of their choice to foster community connection and build a legacy of giving back throughout 2026.   “Illinoisans throughout history have always come together to help their

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Illinois Accountability Commission expands tools to collect information from the public

CHICAGO – The Illinois Accountability Commission (IAC) has announced a new submission process where individuals who witnessed or experienced potential misconduct by federal agents during Operation Midway Blitz can submit video or narrative information to the Commission. This pilot process will expand the IAC’s outreach efforts by engaging people who cannot attend a hearing but would

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Trump Administration cuts funding for life-saving Illinois Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Programs

CHICAGO—This week, the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) received notice from the Trump Administration that funding for five critical behavioral health and suicide prevention programs, totaling over $5.94 million and affecting hundreds of people and providers, has been cut.   “The Trump Administration cutting

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McKendree University announces spring season at The Hett

by Tina Napper LEBANON, IL — Several entertaining acts will be taking to the stage at McKendree University’s Hettenhausen Center for the Arts (the Hett) for the second half of their 2025-2026 season. All events are open to the public with discounts for seniors, students, and Friends of the Hett. For tickets or more information

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Illinois unveils groundbreaking multisector plan to transform state into national leader for older adults

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Department on Aging today released EngAging Illinois: A Comprehensive Plan for Living Well, a landmark multisector plan addressing the needs of older adults and caregivers. The plan establishes a decade-long blueprint to ensure the growing population of older Illinoisans can live dignified, engaged, productive, and meaningful lives at every stage of life. “EngAging Illinois

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Illinois Retail Merchants Association launches first-ever statewide retail scholarship challenge

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) has announced the launch of the Illinois Retail Scholarship Challenge, which encourages high school seniors to develop creative, practical solutions to real business challenges facing the retail sector, with teams competing for scholarships of up to $60,000. Supported by grant funding from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic

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