Illinois Issues: The Next Pension Time Bomb
Illinois has more than $100 billion in pension debt. So far, attempts to fix it have been mostly illegal.
A regional journalism collaboration focused on expanding access to trusted, timely and relevant information across three key statewide topics: Education, Political Impact and Health/Environment
Decatur Gauges Impact Of Gas Tax
It's been nearly a week since Decatur's 5-cent a gallon motor fuel tax, for street repairs, took effect. The city is also is charging a extra penny for diesel fuel. Jay Billingsley, a third-generation gas station owner, calls it a "tough pill to swallow," but says he also has many loyal customers. Public Works Director Rick Marley says the tax is needed for "hundreds" of projects.
Hastert Lawyers Ask He Be Spared Prison In Hush-Money Case
Former House Speaker Dennis Hastert is asking for probation in his hush-money case. His lawyers cite the former Illinois congressman's health and say in a new court filing that he's already paid a high price. They note Hastert's "fall from grace has been swift and devastating." The Chicago Tribune Thursday cited unidentified law enforcement sources as saying at least four people have made "credible allegations of sexual abuse.'
Greg Stock Named As New Champaign City Council Member
High School social studies teacher Greg Stock was sworn in Tuesday night, after the Champaign City Council chose him from a field of ten applicants to take the District Four council seat left vacant by the departure of Marci Dodds.
Illinois Issues: What Can Save The Bees?
Bees are essential to our lives, yet they are dying by the thousands. Experts say there's no one solution for protecting them.
Bill Allowing Undocumented Students To Apply For Student Aid Passes Senate Committee
A state Senate panel has approved a measure that would let undocumented students compete for financial help at Illinois’ 4-year universities.
New State Task Force To Search For Health Care Fraud
Gov. Bruce Rauner has signed an executive order, creating a task force to look for waste, fraud and abuse in taxpayer-funded health care programs. The panel will also try to prevent waste in state and federally funded Medicaid and employee health insurance programs. Rauner says the cost of state-run health care programs increase when no one's acting as a watchdog.
More Students Leaving Illinois For College?
One high school counselor says the budget uncertainty, particularly with the Monetary Award Program, or MAP grants, is pushing some students to attend college out of state.
IL House GOP Leader: ‘We’re The Laughing Stock Of The Nation’
A stalemate persists, as Illinois begins a tenth month without a budget. Legislators are back in Springfield after a spring break. They now have a few months to also find an agreement on a new budget, to cover next year.
State Fair Grandstand Acts Announced (Despite Budget Woes)
Dierks Bentley, Little Big Town, Greg Allman and ZZ Top are among the acts announced for the Grandstand schedule at the Illinois State Fair in August.
