Illinois lawmakers have introduced a bill aimed at simplifying the process of obtaining ongoing medical care for individuals with chronic health conditions. House Bill 3782, introduced by Rep. Sonya M. Harper seeks to amend the Prior Authorization Reform Act by providing more consistent and long-term approval for treatments related to […]
Author: Dani Tietz
Social Security Administration Makes Changes to Identification and Direct Deposit Verification
The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced significant updates to its identity proofing and direct deposit processing procedures. Starting March 31, 2025, the SSA will enforce stricter identity-proofing protocols for benefit claims and direct deposit changes. Beneficiaries and applicants who cannot verify their identity online through their “My Social Security” […]
Bill to Regulate Chemicals in Cosmetic Products Introduced in Illinois
Illinois lawmakers have introduced a new bill aimed at enhancing consumer safety by regulating the use of certain chemicals in cosmetic products. The proposed legislation, known as the Chemicals in Cosmetic Products Act, was introduced by Rep. Sonya M. Harper. This bill seeks to prohibit the manufacture, sale, delivery, holding, […]
Federal Court Issues Temporary Restraining Order Against Social Security Administration and Department of Government Efficiency
The United States District Court for the District of Maryland has granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in a case involving the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO, and others against the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The order, issued on […]
Trump’s Executive Order to Dismantle Department of Education: Impacts and Implications
President Donald Trump signed a sweeping executive order aimed at dismantling the Department of Education, fulfilling a campaign promise to return educational authority to state and local governments. While the order has generated significant attention, its immediate effects remain uncertain as only Congress has the authority to fully abolish a […]
Federal Reserve Maintains Interest Rates Amid Economic Uncertainty
The Federal Reserve announced its latest monetary policy decision, opting to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 4.25% to 4.50%. This decision reflects the Federal Open Market Committee’s (FOMC) ongoing efforts to balance its dual mandate of maximum employment and stable inflation, which remains elevated above the long-term […]
Illinois Bill Seeks to Cap Rent Increases in Mobile Home Parks, Protect Residents from Unfair Fees
The Illinois General Assembly’s State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid (D-21) has introduced a bill aimed at limiting rent increases in mobile home parks. The proposed legislation, known as the Mobile Home Tenant Protection Act, seeks to cap annual rent hikes at 3% and allows for adjustments based on the consumer price […]
Local Artists Invited to Showcase Work at Giertz Gallery’s Summer Exhibition
The Giertz Gallery at Parkland College, in collaboration with 40 North, Champaign County Arts Council, is calling on local artists to submit their work for the upcoming summer exhibition, “Around the Block V: Artists from Our Neighborhood.” This juried community exhibition is open to all artists aged 18 and older […]
Illinois High School Association Implements Significant Changes to Classification Policy
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Board of Directors has approved three major changes to its classification policy during a recent meeting. These changes aim to enhance competitive equity and simplify the postseason classification process for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. Key Changes These changes follow an ongoing review of […]
Federal Court Grants Preliminary Injunction Against Trump’s Transgender Military Ban
A federal court in Washington, D.C., Ana Reyes, has granted a preliminary injunction against President Donald Trump’s executive order banning transgender individuals from serving in the U.S. military. The ruling, issued on March 18, 2025, halts the implementation of the ban pending further litigation. The court’s decision was in response […]