Ill State News

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

SPRINGFIELD, Ill- The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is raising awareness during National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Month this November. The OSFM is urging everyone to recognize the silent and invisible danger of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, which claims hundreds of lives and sickens thousands each year across the United States.   In 2024,

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is issuing a general reminder to the public about the potential dangers of consuming raw milk after at least eleven people were recently sickened by such products. While most milk products sold in the state are pasteurized, meaning they have been treated with heat to kill viruses,

By Maggie Dougherty Capitol News Illinois mdougherty@capitolnewsillinois.com CHICAGO — Terminally ill adults in Illinois may have the option to take life-ending medication prescribed by a physician under a bill passed by the Illinois legislature last week during its fall session.   Advocates for the bill say it is rooted in compassion and will bring agency