Illinois Public Media News

Rauner's moving forward with rule changes that drastically reduce -- by 90 percent -- who's eligible, by lowering the income threshold. A new parent trying to get child care assistance will find she makes too much money, if she's working 40 hours a week at a minimum wage job.

This weekend marks the sixth annual CU Pride Festival in downtown Champaign, and organizers say this year is unique. In June, the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage is legal in all 50 states. Caitlin Jenner's very public transition made conversations about transgender issues even more mainstream.

There are some 20,730 stand-alone video poker machines scattered throughout the state. Thanks to them, state government took in some $200 million dollars in the last fiscal year; that's a huge, $80 million increase from the year before.

Union leaders are dealing with concerns from some members that some self-insured health plan payments for state employees have been halted as a result of the state budget impasse.  Four providers are asking members to upfront at the time of an appointment, and will be reimbursed later.

The Illinois Human Rights Commission said Timber Creek Bed and Breakfast in Paxton broke the law when denying access to a same-sex couple.  Todd and Mark Wathen wanted to hold a civil union ceremony there in 2011.