Illinois Public Media News

Governor Bruce Rauner’s administration says a costly rebuild of the Quincy Veterans Home is the best way to get rid of legionella bacteria linked to more than a dozen deaths there. While some state legislators support the move, others remain skeptical.

Congressman Rodney Davis’ visit Wednesday to an Urbana mosque was meant to strengthen ties with the local Muslim community--but the event turned into a debate over why he hasn’t been more involved in his district. 

On The 21st: We discuss legislation to reduce the use of solitary confinement in federal prisons. Also, Landmarks Illinois has just released its annual list of the historic places in Illinois that are most at risk of demolition, deterioration or development. But first, how recent cuts in state Medicaid drug reimbursements could have serious business consequences for independent pharmacies. 

The company that markets the Bridge is using the study results to promote its use to anyone who will listen: policymakers, criminal justice officials and health care providers. The message is working. In the face of a nationwide crisis of opioid addiction, people are eager for new solutions. 

University of Illinois administrators want to see the Urbana campus move on without Chief Illiniwek. Through a series of public events, they’re seeking input from the community on how best to achieve that, but not everyone thinks it will succeed.

U of I Economist Fred Giertz says Illinois is experiencing its highest economic growth in 20 months. 

On the 21st: The closing of several public housing units in southern Illinois, leaving many residents without homes. Also, buying lottery games that actually have no top prizes. And a new measure is being passed to enact stricter penalties for distracted driving. Plus, there is a risk of wildfires because of the dry weather, according to the National Weather Service.

In the wake of mass shootings comes the debate around gun laws. This week, I explore a different angle: the personal responsibility of carrying a firearm. 

Classical:BTS, or Behind the Scenes, is a six-part WILL video web series that you can watch starting Tuesday evening.  It’s a look at some of the lesser seen and heard stories about classical music in central Illinois, and a follow-up to the award-winning 2015 web series Art:BTS.