Nearly a year after a groundbreaking ceremony, a new casino opened to the public for the first time on Saturday in Danville’s Eastgate area. Initially, the casino will be open eight hours a day, closed on Tuesdays.
A source familiar with the deal says it would keep non-defense spending roughly flat in the 2024 fiscal year and increase it by 1% the following year, as well as provide for a two-year debt-limit increase.
The plodding along on the state budget could still see the Illinois House passing the $50.6 billion spending plan by Friday.
Measure came to vote after frenzied two days of closed-door negotiations.
With the Illinois and federal COVID-19 emergency orders ending May 11, some new programs will now seek state dollars.
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.
Jurors deliberated for 27 hours over five days.
After a year of bargaining – and a six day strike – faculty and staff at Eastern Illinois University have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract.
Advocates differ on language requiring strict pass-through of state funding to staff.
Manufacturers, retailers hold joint convention as lawmakers enter final stretch.
Statewide building code, requirement that retailers accept cash also advancing through legislature.
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.)
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…
Severe storms damaged farm equipment and business on Friday night.
Jury hears 16 more recorded calls; Rep. says Madigan ruled ‘through fear and intimidation’.