State Fair Illinois News Roundup - August 11, 2023
Reporters discussed IL Supreme Ct. upholding the semiautomatic weapons ban, the upcoming federal farm bill renewal debate and ketchup on corn dogs.
Illinois Public Media News
In-depth reporting from WILL, NPR, the Associated Press, and other sources
Contact WILL News at willnewsroom@illinois.edu
WILL Newscast
Dept. of Natural Resources Director reflects on parks, oil wells, and conservation
The 21st broadcast live from the 2023 Illinois State Fair. Our first guest was Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Violence prevention funding in Peoria helps youth
Peoria has had 107 homicides since 2019. Many of these crimes involved gun violence and the city is investing $100 million in programs to help provide opportunities for youth and reduce crimes.
Comptroller Susana Mendoza talks Illinois budget, pensions, and diversity
Susana Mendoza, Illinois Comptroller, discussed the state's finances including the growing rainy day fund, its unfunded pension liability, the 2024 state budget, and unpaid bills.
Fact check: Does new Illinois law allow non-citizens to become police officers?
A new Illinois law will allow certain non-citizens who meet specific requirements to apply to become police officers — primarily people with green cards. The legislation had strong bipartisan support in the General Assembly, but has since been criticized by Republican politicians outside of Illinois. We'll talk with the lawmaker who sponsored the legislation about what the new law will and will not do.