Senate Democrats send budget to House, teeing it up for early Saturday morning vote
Measure came to vote after frenzied two days of closed-door negotiations.
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Illinois’ government has spent billions in federal pandemic aid. What do some programs do when the money runs out?
With the Illinois and federal COVID-19 emergency orders ending May 11, some new programs will now seek state dollars.
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Economic growth in Illinois continued to slow down in April, according to the Flash Index.
The latest University of Illinois Flash Index shows the state’s economic growth rate continuing its year-long, near-steady decline. The Index fell from 103.1 in March, to 102.9 in April. It had been as high as 106.1 in March 2022. Any Flash Index reading above 100 indicates a growing economy in Illinois.
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UPDATED: ‘ComEd Four’ found guilty on all counts in bribery trial tied to ex-Speaker Madigan
Jurors deliberated for 27 hours over five days.
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Eastern Illinois University faculty approve new contract after strike
After a year of bargaining – and a six day strike – faculty and staff at Eastern Illinois University have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract.
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Providers, unions call for pay increase for staff serving individuals with developmental disabilities
Advocates differ on language requiring strict pass-through of state funding to staff.
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Businesses lobby governor, Statehouse leaders in Springfield
Manufacturers, retailers hold joint convention as lawmakers enter final stretch.
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Pritzker: ‘Devil’s in the details’ when considering lifting ban on new nuclear
Statewide building code, requirement that retailers accept cash also advancing through legislature.
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Flash Index: Illinois’ economic growth continues its slow decline in March.
After an increase to 103.4 in February, the Flash Index for March dropped back to its January level of 103.1. Except for that one-month increase, the Flash Index has been declining since a peak of 106.1 in March of 2022. (Any reading on the Flash Index above 100 indicates economic growth.)
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Microloan fund supports local businesses in Champaign County
A new microloan fund to help businesses in Champaign County recover from the pandemic is up and running. The Champaign County Economic Development Corporation announced the two-million-dollar loan program. Executive Director Carly McCrory McKay said the goal is to help under-served business owners gain access to affordable financial services. “We’ve certainly had some initial interest…
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Tornado damages property of Champaign County farmers
Severe storms damaged farm equipment and business on Friday night.
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‘You’re a street fighter,’ Madigan confidant counseled former speaker: wiretapped call
Jury hears 16 more recorded calls; Rep. says Madigan ruled ‘through fear and intimidation’.
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2 million Illinois residents hit by reduction in SNAP benefits
CHAMPAIGN – Beginning this month, people who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see a sharp reduction in benefits. As the emergency allotments enacted by Congress at the start of pandemic expire, 16 million American households will now receive less monthly assistance. In Illinois, the change is expected to affect two…
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Caterpillar workers ratify new 6-year contract with company
Unionized workers at Caterpillar Inc. have approved a new six-year contract with the company that includes a $6,000 ratification bonus, 19% in pay raises and 8% worth of lump-sum payments.
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Mendoza pushes for law requiring greater deposits in ‘rainy day’ fund
Highest-ever balance slated to exceed $1.9 billion by end of fiscal year.
