News

The Senate Republican Caucus took action this week to restore public trust in an honest and ethical state government by introducing a legislative proposal to ensure independent investigations of members of the General Assembly. Currently, except in cases alleging sexual harassment, the Legislative Inspector General (LIG) must get advance approval from the Legislative Ethics Commission (LEC) before opening an investigation

An ambitious multi-year, multi-billion-dollar plan for road and bridge construction was launched during the week, while the battle against opioid deaths continues, and the state improves educational opportunities for both students and teachers. Meanwhile, final preparations are being made for the fall Veto Session that starts Oct. 28. Billions for roads and bridges The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) took

During the upcoming fall veto session, during which they generally take actions on bills vetoed by the Governor, Illinois lawmakers could also be asked to consider a proposal to consolidate suburban and downstate pension plans, and new bills being filed by lawmakers. The fall veto session is scheduled for Oct. 28-30, and Nov. 12-14. As Veterans Day approaches, Senate Republicans

This week is Fire Prevention Week, and the Illinois State Fire Marshal is offering safety tips to keep your family safe this fall. In other news, the Illinois State Police is warning residents about a phone scam, and proceeds from a new lottery game will go to help the homeless.     Fire Prevention Week: October 6-12 The theme for Fire Prevention

Illinois has been ranked the least tax-friendly state in a new study. Meanwhile, state officials will be using the month of October to educate people about cybersecurity, and residents can now apply for help with heating bills. In other news, IDOT is looking for snowplow drivers, and harvest could be rough for farmers, whether they are growing corn or hemp.

After a rough and delayed planting season, Illinois’ agriculture industry received good news this week with a Taiwanese delegation committing to purchasing over $2 billion in Illinois soy and corn over the next two years. Meanwhile, Illinois motorists are encouraged to do their part to keep farmers safe as they head back into the fields and hit the roadways for

A one-time tax amnesty program is being offered to delinquent taxpayers beginning October 1. Also during the week, members of the Property Tax Relief Task Force continued to meet in hopes of addressing Illinois’ onerous property tax burden. In other news, promoting farm safety and preventing accidents is the focus of National Farm Safety and Health Week. Parents and caregivers

Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, recreational cannabis sales will be legal in Illinois. With less than four months to go before the new law takes effect, dispensaries have several regulations to abide by, such as taking part in health and safety training, before opening their doors. Furthermore, dispensaries are anxiously waiting on their local municipalities to decide whether they will allow

A new law allowing allow craft distilleries to deliver and sell their products directly to merchants has recently become law. In other news, an estimated $69 million in federal aid is being sought for flood damages across the state, and new reports give mixed reviews on Illinois’ economic outlook. New law allows craft distilleries to self-distribute, create “distill pubs” Craft

A number of bills sponsored by Senate Republican lawmakers have been signed into law during the week, including measures expanding youth hunting, shining light on ADA violations, seeking to repurpose a state facility, and increasing safety. Also during the week, the Illinois Gaming Board is seeking public comment on Illinois’ sports wagering. New Law Expands Youth Hunting Young hunters throughout