According to the Illinois State Board of Education, the Class of 2024 in Illinois achieved success in Advanced Placement (AP) participation and performance, setting new records and outpacing national averages. Performance Highlights Illinois has made significant strides in AP exam performance over the past decade: “Over the years, we’ve seen […]
State of Illinois
Financial impacts of federal action stir anxiety for Illinois farmers
by Ashley Soriano and Medill Illinois News Bureau February 21, 2025 CHICAGO — The effects of President Donald Trump’s planned tariffs on allies and rivals are yet to be seen, but farmers in Illinois are bracing for their impact – even as they wait years for Congress to pass long-term federal spending […]
Bills Look to Expand Bachelor’s Degree Access at Community Colleges
Two bills currently under consideration in the Illinois General Assembly, House Bill 3717 and Senate Bill 2482, propose to amend the Public Community College Act to allow community college districts to offer baccalaureate degree programs under certain conditions. These bills aim to address workforce needs, promote equitable access to higher […]
Illinois Senate Bill Aims to Protect Patients from Aggressive Medical Debt Collection
A new bill introduced in the Illinois Senate seeks to amend the Fair Patient Billing Act, providing greater protections for patients facing medical debt. Senate Bill 1223, introduced by Senator Laura Fine, addresses several key issues related to medical debt collection and patient billing practices. The bill focuses on preventing […]
Illinois Secretary of State Clarifies REAL ID Requirements Ahead of May 7 Deadline
With the May 7th deadline for REAL ID enforcement fast approaching, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is working to clear up confusion surrounding the new federal requirements. Giannoulias emphasizes that while a REAL ID will be necessary for certain federal activities, it is not mandatory for everyone. The primary reason for […]
Pritzker Warns of Parallels Between Trump and Nazi Germany in Budget Address
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker used his time during the Feb. 19 budget address to draw stark parallels between the current political climate in the United States and the rise of Nazi Germany. During his speech, Pritzker warned of what he perceives as alarming trends in American politics, particularly targeting the […]
Planned Parenthood of Illinois Expands Medication Abortion Access Through App
Planned Parenthood of Illinois (PPIL) has announced the expansion of its abortion care services by offering medication abortion through the PPDirect app. The PPDirect app, which already provides birth control, UTI treatment, at-home STI testing, and emergency contraception, will now include medication abortion as part of its suite of services. […]
Special Education Bill Puts Parents at the Forefront
A new bill introduced by Illinois Representative Jed Davis (R – 75) seeks to establish local advisory committees within school districts and regional cooperative programs that provide special education services. House Bill 1106, also known as the Local Advisory Committees on Special Education Act, lies in its mandate for school […]
Illinois Lawmakers Introduce Homeschool Act to Establish Notification and Oversight Requirements for Home Education
A new bill, HB2827, known as the Homeschool Act, is currently under consideration in the Illinois General Assembly. Introduced on February 6, 2025, by Representatives Terra Costa Howard (D – 42), Michelle Mussman (D – 56), and Kelly M. Cassidy (D – 14), the bill aims to establish a framework […]
Illinois Senate Bill Proposes Property Tax Relief for Small Businesses, Offering Up to $1,500 in Tax Credits
A new bill introduced in the Illinois State Senate seeks to provide much-needed property tax relief to qualified small businesses across the state. Senate Bill 146, sponsored by Senator William Cunningham (D – 18), Javier L. Cervantes (D-1), and Adriane Johnson (D-30), proposes a tax credit for eligible small businesses, […]