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Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker

207 State House
217-782-0244

Governor JB Pritzker was sworn in as the 43rd Governor of Illinois on Jan. 14, 2019. Since taking office, he has accomplished one of the most ambitious and consequential policy agendas in state history.

The governor won bipartisan passage for Rebuild Illinois, the largest investment in state history to upgrade roads, bridges, rail, broadband, and schools. He overcame years of fiscal mismanagement in Illinois by proposing and passing a balanced budget every year, eliminating the state’s multi-billion dollar bill backlog, reducing the state’s pension liability, and achieving six credit upgrades from rating agencies. He took bold action to put state government back on the side of working families by creating jobs, raising the minimum wage to a living wage, protecting reproductive rights, making university and community college education more affordable, and advancing equal pay for women.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Pritzker saved lives and livelihoods by prioritizing the health and safety of Illinois residents while supporting families and businesses through the COVID-induced recession. To protect hardworking families from additional hardship, one of the defining features of the governor’s response to the COVID financial crisis was launching the nation’s largest pandemic relief grant program for small businesses and the nation’s largest housing assistance program.

In 2021, Governor Pritzker proposed and signed a comprehensive clean energy bill, making Illinois a national leader on climate action and the first state in the Midwest to pass a law phasing out fossil fuels.

Before becoming governor, Pritzker founded 1871, the non-profit small business incubator in Chicago. Since its creation, Chicago has been named one of the top ten technology startup hubs in the world, and 1871 was named the best incubator in the world. As governor, he continues to expand support for new business creation throughout the state and cut taxes for hundreds of thousands of small businesses while incentivizing job creation. Since 2019, annual new business startups in Illinois have grown by nearly 70%. Illinois now has the largest growth in small business creation among the largest states in the nation, beating states like California, Texas, Florida and New York.

Governor Pritzker and his wife, MK, have been married for more than 25 years, and they are the proud parents of daughter, Teddi, and son, Don.

Recent News

Pritzker Administration Announces Illinois' Largest Annual Award for Permanent Supportive Housing

$123 million in funding will create 14 life-changing, supportive housing developments for persons with disabilities and those at risk of homelessness CHICAGO - The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has announced more than $123…

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Governor Pritzker Launches $30 Million Grant Opportunity for Community Revitalization

Eligible entities can now apply for funding to accelerate economic growth and community revitalization CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) launched $30 million in funding for the…

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As Respiratory Virus Season Winds Down, Virus Levels Continue Downward Trend Across Illinois

CHICAGO - With the respiratory virus season continuing to wind down, Illinois' overall respiratory virus level is now Minimal and all counties in the state are at Low level for COVID-19 hospitalizations, according to CDC data for the week ending…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $9 Million in Grant Funding for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Recipients Across Illinois

Funding will support housing rehabilitation projects for 14 communities located in non-metropolitan areas in Illinois Chicago, IL - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced the…

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Honoring Illinois' Fallen

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance of Chicago Police Officer…

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OSFM and ISP Honor and Celebrate Illinois Telecommunicators

In 2023, ISP telecommunicators handled more than 530,000 calls for service. Springfield - The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) and Illinois State Police (ISP) are joining together to recognize and honor all Illinois…

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Illinois Poetry Out Loud Champion Advances to National Finals

The Illinois Arts Council (IAC) congratulates Illinois Poetry Out Loud champion, Yohanna Endashaw of Niles West High School, Skokie and runner-up, Kate Roth of Central High School, Champaign. In Illinois this year, 44 high schools, 205 teachers and…

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Honoring Illinois' Fallen

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance of Illinois Department of…

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IDPH Awards $2 Million in Training Grants to 3 Groups to Improve Reproductive Health Services

State Announces Grants to Midwest Access Project, Planned Parenthood of Illinois & UIC College of Nursing to Increase Capacity to Provide Safe Access to Abortion, Other Reproductive Care CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)…

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Illinois EPA Announces $25.1 Million in Grant Awards for Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

Springfield, IL - Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim today announced $25.1 million is being awarded to 20 applicants for electric vehicle charging infrastructure under the Driving a Cleaner Illinois program.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Illinois Grocery Initiative Grant Opportunity

CHICAGO, IL - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton joined food justice advocates and local stakeholders to announce a new grant program from the Illinois Grocery Initiative. The New Stores in Food Deserts Program…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Upcoming Personnel Transitions at Illinois Department of Insurance

Chicago, IL - Today Governor JB Pritzker announced that Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI) Director Dana Popish Severinghaus will step down from her role on April 15th. Popish Severinghaus has served as Director of DOI since January of 2021.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Two Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration Energy Workforce Advisory Council John Pady will serve as a Member of the Energy Workforce Advisory…

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IDPH Reports No Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting that all counties in the state are a Low Community Level for COVID-19 this week. This comes after four counties were listed at Medium Community Level…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Start of Illinois 50 Improvements in Bradley-Bourbonnais

BRADLEY - Gov. JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined today by local officials and community leaders to announce the start of improvements to the intersection of Illinois 50 and Armour Road, a project that will…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $15 Million in Funding for Community Revitalization

CHICAGO - The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) announced $15 million in available grant funding to support affordable housing and community revitalization efforts across the state. Available under the second round of IHDA's Strong…

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Nomination Deadline Approaching for Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame Awards

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is reminding residents of the upcoming June 1 nomination deadline for the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame awards, open to adults aged 65 and older who excel in the categories of community…

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Gov. Pritzker Encourages Illinois Medicaid Customers to Complete Renewals to Ensure Continued Coverage as Federal Pandemic-era Policies End

CHICAGO - As the COVID-19 pandemic policy of pausing annual Medicaid renewals for customers comes to an end, the Pritzker administration is committed to protect coverage for eligible Illinois Medicaid customers, as annual eligibility verifications,…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Departure of Deputy Chief of Staff for Equity Dr. Sekile Nzinga

Chicago— Governor JB Pritzker announced the upcoming departure of Deputy Chief of Staff for Equity Dr. Sekile Nzinga, who has overseen the state's first comprehensive efforts to ensure equity and inclusion. Prior to serving as Deputy Chief of…

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IDPH Reports 4 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting four counties in the state are at a Medium Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to two a week ago. There are no counties at High Level…

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Illinois Gaming Board Approves Measures including New Plans for Casinos in Joliet/Aurora and Responsible Gaming Signage at Video Gaming Locations

The Illinois Gaming Board (the "IGB" or "Board") considered a number of regulatory matters during its regularly scheduled meeting today including approval of Penn Entertainment's plans for new Hollywood Casinos in Aurora and Joliet. "Today's…

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Gov. Pritzker Awards $6.6 Million in Route 66 and Local Tourism Marketing Grants

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced 58 awards totaling $6.6 million through the Route 66 ($3.7 million) and Tourism Marketing Grant Programs ($2.9 million) to…

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Gov. Pritzker Takes Bill Action

Bill Number: HB559 Description: Creates the Health Care Workforce Reinforcement Act that codifies workforce and pharmacy related executive orders issued during the COVID public health emergency. Action: Signed Effective:…

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Pritzker Administration Provides $15.3 Million in Home Improvement Grants

CHICAGO - The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) today announced the grand opening of the Home Repair and Accessibility Program (HRAP) designed to assist low-income and very low-income homeowners with health, safety, accessibility, and…

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IDPH Reports 2 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting two counties in the state are at a Medium Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to six a week ago. There are no counties at High Level for…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $16 Million in Funding for Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship, Barrier Reduction Programs

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today launched $10 million in funding for the Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program and $6 million for the Energy Transition Barrier…

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First Lady MK Pritzker Opens Her Door to Illinois' Cultural Community, Honors Artist Richard Hunt

SPRINGFIELD—Illinois First Lady MK Pritzker will host a cocktail reception at the Governor's Mansion the evening of Monday, April 24, 2023, to welcome Illinois' cultural leaders attending the "One State Conference and Capital Day" in…

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Gaming Board welcomes new class of Agents at Police Academy Graduation Ceremony

The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) welcomed six new gaming agent trainees to the agency today during a law enforcement basic training graduation ceremony in Springfield. The additional gaming agents will be assigned to IGB casino field offices…

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Illinois Receives Approval from Biden Admin for School-Based Health Services Expansion

SPRINGFIELD - The Biden Administration has approved a Pritzker administration proposal to expand the Illinois School-Based Health Services program, which will bring in additional federal matching funds to provide covered services for…

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IDPH Reports 6 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting 6 counties in the state are at a Medium Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to 14 a week ago. There are no counties at High Level for…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $14 Million in Grant Awards for Human Service Providers

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker today joined the Department of Human Services (IDHS) and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), along with state and local officials to announce over $14 million in awards to 70 human services…

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Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Fermilab's New Integrated Engineering Research Center at Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

CHICAGO — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined government officials and stakeholders at a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the completion of Fermilab's new Integrated Engineering Research Center and PIP-II cryoplant building. Fermilab is a…

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Honoring Illinois' Fallen

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance of: Fire Department…

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Gov. Pritzker Blasts Ruling in Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, Applauds Order in Washington v. FDA Protecting Abortion Medication Access

CHICAGO — Following today's two competing U.S. District Court decisions, a Texas ruling limiting access to abortion medication nationwide and a competing Washington decision maintaining the status quo, Governor JB Pritzker is reaffirming the…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $127.9 million in Awards for Local Transportation Enhancement Projects

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) today announced that $127.9 million has been awarded through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) to expand travel options and enhance quality of…

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IDPH Reports 14 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting 14 counties in the state are at a Medium Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to 13 a week ago. There are no counties at High Level for…

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Gov. Pritzker Awards $22.5 Million to Boost Tourism, Support Illinois Festivals and Attractions

CHICAGO - Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined legislators and leaders in the tourism industry to award $22.5 million in grant funding for 89 projects across Illinois through…

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Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Improvements to St. Louis Downtown Airport in Cahokia Heights and Sauget

ST. CLAIR COUNTY - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined today by local officials and community leaders to celebrate a $5.4 million investment in several airfield improvements at the St. Louis Downtown…

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Pritzker Administration Announces $105 Million Investment for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

Southern Illinois - Governor JB Pritzker announced the investment of more than $105 million for the construction of a health sciences building and renovations to existing buildings at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) campus. The…

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IBHE awards $3.37 million in Early Childhood Faculty Preparation Grants to Illinois institutions

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) has awarded $3.37 million in Early Childhood Faculty Preparation Grants to two public and two private universities to implement programs of study primarily for working adults from diverse…

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Gov. Pritzker Highlights Higher Education and Infrastructure Investments with visits to University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Sangamon County

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Governor JB Pritzker visited the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and Sangamon County to highlight his administration's investments in higher education and infrastructure. These proposed investments in the…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Start of Underpass Construction at Madison, Jefferson Streets in Springfield

SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the city of Springfield, Sangamon County, and other state and local officials today to celebrate the start of construction on a new $68.3 million…

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Gov. Pritzker Visits Dekalb and Winnebago Counties to Highlight Higher Education and Infrastructure Investments

DEKALB — Today, Governor JB Pritzker was joined by state and local leaders for two events where he highlighted investments in higher education and infrastructure. The day began at Northern Illinois University in Dekalb and concluded in…

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Illinois EPA Announces $27 Million Notice of Funding Opportunity for Electric School Buses

SPRINGFIELD —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim today announced a $27,023,485 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) to fund the replacement of existing diesel school buses with new all-electric school…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Start of Perryville Road Bridge Project in Rockford

ROCKFORD — Governor JB Pritzker along with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined today by local officials and community leaders to announce the start of the Perryville Road bridge replacement over Interstate 39 and U.S.…

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Gov. Pritzker Issues Disaster Proclamation, Unlocking Resources for Areas Damaged by Tornadoes Across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Governor JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation to unlock immediate assistance and provide public safety support for communities across Illinois impacted by last night's tornadoes and severe weather. The disaster…

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DoIT Celebrates April as Innovation and Technology Month in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed the month of April as Innovation and Technology Month in Illinois, highlighting the value of IT and the efforts made to build the state into an innovation and technology hub, delivering statewide IT…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $200 Million Investment in Projects That Improve Freight Mobility Throughout Illinois

DECATUR — Governor JB Pritzker joined state and local leaders along with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) today to announce a nearly $200 million investment in 22 projects that will improve the movement of freight throughout…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Innovate Illinois: A Public-Private Partnership to Secure Federal Funding for Illinois

CHICAGO -- Seizing the opportunity to capture the billions of dollars of federal and private investment in science, technology and climate initiatives, Governor JB Pritzker, in partnership with P33,the Civic Committee, University of Illinois…

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Lt. Governor Stratton Joins Reproductive Freedom Coalition

Chicago, IL--Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton today announced she will join the Reproductive Freedom Coalition (RFC), a group of Lieutenant Governors and Second-In-Commands from 22 states and territories. They are united in their dedication to protect and…

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IDPH Reports 12 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting 12 counties in the state are at an elevated Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to nine a week ago. All of those are at a Medium…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces 116 Non-profit Organizations Awarded $20 Million for Enhanced Security Across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced $20 million in grants have been awarded to 116 non-profit organizations across the state through the 2023 Nonprofit Security Grant Program…

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Pritzker Administration and Flender Corporation Announce Manufacturing Expansion in Elgin

ELGIN - Governor JB Pritzker, Flender Corporation and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced that Flender will expand its current manufacturing facility in Elgin - creating 50 new full-time jobs and…

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Illinois Payroll Jobs Up, Unemployment Rate Stable in February

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.5 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +10,700 in February, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S.…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces 116 Non-profit Organizations Awarded $20 Million for Enhanced Security Across Illinois

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced $20 million in grants have been awarded to 116 non-profit organizations across the state through the 2022 Nonprofit Security Grant Program…

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Construction Begins on Illinois Youth Center in Lincoln

Lincoln - Governor J.B. Pritzker announced construction will begin on a new Illinois Youth Center for youth in secure custody of the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ). The project will align with IDJJ's new residential,…

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Gov. Pritzker Names Bria Scudder Deputy Governor

Chicago—Today Governor JB Pritzker announced that Bria Scudder will serve as Deputy Governor for Public Safety, Infrastructure, Environment, and Energy. Scudder previously worked in the Governor's Office as First Assistant to Christian…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $175 Million Available in B2B Grants for Restaurants, Hotels and Creative Arts Businesses

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $175 million in available grant funding through the Back to Business (B2B) program. Following state recovery for businesses…

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Pritzker Administration Awards $38.7 Million to Improve Housing Accessibility and Stability for Vulnerable Illinoisans

CHICAGO - The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Board announced the conditional awarding of nearly $39 million in state and federal resources that will finance the creation or preservation of permanent supportive housing across the…

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Illinois Counties Lead the Nation for Corn and Soybean Production in 2022

SPRINGFIELD, IL - The USDA National Agriculture Statistic Service (NASS) released county estimates for 2022 corn and soybean production, with Illinois counties holding the top spot for production in both crops. Illinois' hold as the number one…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Illinois Breaks Film Industry Records with Nearly $700 Million in Expenditures

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), leaders in Illinois' film industry, and state leaders today announced Illinois' soaring film production expenditures with a record-breaking $691…

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IDPH Reports 9 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the CDC is reporting nine counties in the state are at an elevated Community Level for COVID-19 this week, compared to 26 a week ago. Of those, eight are at Medium…

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Gov. Pritzker Shares Proposed Higher Education Investments at Malcolm X College in Chicago

CHICAGO — On the final day of his Community College Tour, Governor JB Pritzker was joined by Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, state officials, and community leaders at Malcolm X College to highlight proposed investments in higher education. The…

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Illinois Climate Bank Announces over $250 Million in Climate Finance Achieved in First Year

CHICAGO — The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA), in its role as the State Climate Bank, today announced a landmark year of deploying over $250 million in private capital to further clean and sustainable development projects. Additionally, the…

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Gov. Pritzker visits Joliet Junior College to Share Proposed Investments in Higher Education

JOLIET — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, state officials, and community leaders at Joliet Junior College (JJC) to highlight his proposed investments in higher education. The Governor's FY24 budget calls for…

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IDPH Launches $30 Million Program to Distribute Air Purifiers in Illinois Schools

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced today that the state is launching a $29.6 million program to distribute more than 60,000 HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) purifiers to Illinois…

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Gov. Pritzker Highlights Proposed Higher Education Investments at Lincoln Land Community College

SPRINGFIELD — Today, Governor JB Pritzker visited Lincoln Land Community College (LLCC), continuing to highlight his proposed investments in higher education. He was joined by Lt. Governor Stratton, stakeholders, and local and state leaders.…

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Pritzker Administration launches campaign to protect Medicaid coverage

SPRINGFIELD - The Pritzker Administration is launching an all-out public awareness initiative to ensure Illinoisans retain their health insurance coverage when pandemic-era protections end and Medicaid eligibility verifications resume. The…

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Gov. Pritzker visits Heartland Community College To Highlight Proposed Higher Education Investments

BLOOMINGTON — Today, Governor JB Pritzker joined Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, stakeholders, and community leaders at Heartland Community College to highlight his proposed investments in higher education. The Governor's FY24 budget calls for…

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Illinois Earns Credit Upgrade from Moody's Investor Service

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor JB Pritzker today hailed Moody's Investor Service upgrade of Illinois bonds to A3, the second major rating agency to return Illinois' credit to the ‘A' category. The action also represents the eighth upgrade in less…

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Gov. Pritzker Joins 14 Governors in Call to Major Pharmacies to Clarify Position on Medication Abortion Access

Chicago— Governor JB Pritzker today joined 14 other Governors to call on major pharmacies to clarify how they plan to safeguard against threats to reproductive healthcare and protect access to medication like Mifepristone. Governor Pritzker…

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Gov. Pritzker Signs Historic Legislation Guaranteeing 40 Hours of Paid Leave

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker today signed SB208 into law, making Illinois the third state in the nation, and the first in the Midwest, to mandate paid time off to be used for any reason. The historic legislation provides employees with up to…

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Pritzker Administration Fines Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois $605,000 for violation of the Network Adequacy and Transparency Act (NATA)

Chicago - The Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) announced on March 9th, a $605,000 fine for Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), the parent company of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, for violating the Network Adequacy and Transparency…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Personnel Transitions at Illinois Commerce Commission

Chairman Carrie Zalewski to step down in June Chicago— Governor JB Pritzker announced that Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) Chairman Carrie Zalewski will step down from her position in June. In order to facilitate a smooth transition as the…

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State Fire Marshal Reminds Residents to Test, Inspect and Replace Broken or Expired Smoke/CO Alarms While Changing Clocks

Daylight saving time serves as a reminder to ensure you have working smoke/CO alarms in your home and review fire-safety plans Springfield, IL - The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) reminds Illinoisans to test, inspect, and replace…

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IDNR Seeking Seasonal Conservation Workers for State Parks and Historic Sites

SPRINGFIELD –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking applicants for seasonal conservation workers at state parks and historic sites around the state. Conservation workers are the department’s boots on the ground at state…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Medical Equipment Transfer For Earthquake Recovery Efforts In The Devastated Kahramanmaras Region In Turkey

Springfield – On March 10th, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced the release of emergency medical supplies to support long-term disaster relief efforts in Turkey and provide humanitarian…

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Illinois Spring Trout Fishing Season Opens April 1 at 58 Locations Statewide

SPRINGFIELD – The 2023 Illinois spring trout fishing season will open Saturday, April 1, at 58 ponds, lakes, and streams throughout the state. An early opportunity at selected trout sites – the spring catch-and-release fishing season…

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IDHS Recognizes March as Problem Gambling Awareness Month

The Chicago Skyline will be lit teal and an art contest will raise awareness for gambling disorders and celebrate those in recovery CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) on March 9th, recognized March…

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Illinois Payroll Jobs Up, Unemployment Rate Down in January

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on March 9th, that the unemployment rate fell -0.1 percentage point to 4.5 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +14,300 in January, based on preliminary data…

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Illinois Senate Confirms Ann McCabe as ICC Commissioner

Springfield, IL –The Illinois State Senate has officially confirmed the appointment of Ann McCabe as Commissioner of the Illinois Commerce Commission. Governor JB Pritzker appointed McCabe to a five-year term on February 1, 2022. McCabe has…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Behavioral Health Workforce Education Center

Housed at SIU in partnership with UIC, IBHE, and IDHS, the Center will strengthen behavioral health care infrastructure and access in Illinois SPRINGFIELD — On March 8th, Governor JB Pritzker along with state and local officials celebrated…

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More than 50 Recipients Selected to Receive Energy Transition Community Grants

$40 million grant program established by the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) is designed to support communities impacted by plant or mine retirements SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Departure of Illinois Department of Corrections Director Rob Jeffreys

Jeffreys Departs Corrections After Almost 4 Years of Service Chicago -- Governor Pritzker on March 7th, announced that Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) Director Rob Jeffreys is stepping down from his position, effective April 1, 2023.…

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March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month

Springfield –Illinois averages 53 tornadoes per year, which means you should grab your dog Toto and be prepared for tornadoes and severe weather. March is Severe Weather Preparedness Month and a good time to plan ahead, especially with the…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Transformation Initiative for State-Operated Developmental Centers

Choate Campus to be improved and partially re-purposed SIU to advise on future operations and expanded mental health services Springfield- Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) on March 8th, announced a critical…

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New Rebuild Illinois Online Dashboard Provides Up-To-Date Look at Historic Capital Program Progress

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation on March 6th, announced the launch of a new webpage dedicated to keeping the public informed of the progress delivering Governor Pritzker’s historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Board Appointment - March 6, 2023

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointment in his administration Western Illinois University Board of Trustees Derek Wise will serve as a Member of the Western Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Highlights New Teacher Pipeline Initiative to Address Shortages

Initiative will address chronic shortages in the state’s most understaffed districts SPRINGFIELD — On March 3rd, Governor JB Pritzker visited Streamwood High School in Elgin to highlight a new teacher pipeline initiative aimed at…

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Illinois EPA Announces Second Notice of Funding Opportunity for Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Program

$5 Million Available to Local Governments for Development of Complete Lead Service Line Inventories Springfield —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim on March 3rd, announced a second funding opportunity…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Four Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration Illinois State Board of Education Donna Leak will continue to serve as a Member of the Illinois…

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Honoring Illinois' Fallen

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice fromGovernor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Actare to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of: Police Officer Andres Vasquez-…

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Notice of Funding Opportunity for 2023 Urban Area Nonprofit Security Grant Program

2023 Statewide Nonprofit Security Grant Program Springfield – The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) was notified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of two grant opportunities for non-profit organizations across…

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Attorney General Raoul And Illinois Department Of Human Rights Issue Guidance On Protections Against Discrimination Related To Pregnancy, Reproductive Health Decisions

Chicago – Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul and the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) on March 2nd, released a guide on the state's protections against discriminationbased on pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health…

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Illinois State Fire Marshal Awards $1.5 Million in Grants to Illinois Fire Departments and EMS Providers

Springfield, Ill- The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) announced on March 3rd, the recipients of the 2023 Small Equipment Grant Program. A total of $1.5 million was awarded to 64 fire departments/districts and EMS providers across…

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Illinois Ranks #2 State in the Nation for Corporate Investment

Chicago takes the title as ‘Top Metro’ in the nation for 10th straight year CHICAGO — Site Selection Magazine – an international industry-leading business publication -- released its annual corporate expansion and relocation…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Nearly $60 Million in Grants for 118 Local Park and Recreation Projects Throughout Illinois

Largest round of funding ever will cover 100% of eligible projects located in economically distressed communities SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker along with state and local leaders and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Partnership Between Illinois Universities and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

Group of Illinois universities selected by Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) for new state-of-the-art Biohub in Chicago; Highly-competitive program selection bolstered by commitment to secure $25 million in state support CHICAGO – Governor…

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CMS Announces Launch of Reparations Commission Website to Inform Public about Economic Inequities Due to Impacts of Slavery

CMS Announces Launch of Reparations Commission Website to Inform Public about Economic Inequities Due to Impacts of Slavery SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) announced on Feb 28th, the launch of a website…

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State of Illinois Launches Coalition in Effort to Eliminate Viral Hepatitis in Illinois

IDPH Convened Stakeholders from Around Illinois at Kickoff Meeting CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) launched a new effort on Feb 28th, to eliminate viral hepatitis in Illinois. The Illinois Hepatitis Coalition held…

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Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton Testifies at U.S. Senate Hearing on the Equal Rights Amendment

WASHINGTON –The journey to equality must push forward. On Tuesday, February 28, 2023, Illinois Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton, along with constitutional experts, ERA advocates, and U.S. senators testified before the full Senate Judiciary…

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Montgomery County’s Dan Dobrinich named 2022 IRAP Landowner of the Year

Springfield –Dan Dobrinich, a Montgomery County resident and an advocate for youth hunting and fishing, is the Illinois Recreational Access Program (IRAP) Landowner of the Year for 2022, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources announced…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Recommendations from Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative

Initiative proposes steps to strengthen the delivery of behavioural and mental health services for Illinois youth CHICAGO — On Feb 24th, Governor JB Pritzker joined local, state, and community leaders to release a new report from the…

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Illinois Earns Credit Upgrade from S/P

Illinois’ Seventh Credit Upgrade Under Gov. Pritzker SPRINGFIELD -- Governor JB Pritzker on Feb 23rd, celebrated S&P Global Ratings’ upgrade of Illinois bonds. This latest action means that Illinois has received a total of seven…

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Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward Award Recipients

Springfield – The Illinois Department of Transportation on Feb 22nd, announced five award recipients from the recent 32nd Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Reward conference, recognizing the achievements and efforts that helped to grow…

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Cook County Awards Community-Based Service Providers $25 Million to Address Gun Violence

CHICAGO — In response to high levels of gun violence experienced since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Illinois Department of Human Services Office of Firearm Violence Prevention (OFVP), together with Cook County's Justice Advisory…

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Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Commemorates 32nd Anniversary of Operation Desert Storm Cease Fire

Springfield, IL -- The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs will commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the Operation Desert Storm Cease-Fire on Tuesday, February 28th at 11:30 AM in Springfield. Operation Desert Storm began in 1991 after…

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Building Blocks of Success IDOT Announces March Dates for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Workshops

Springfield – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting free virtual workshops in March as part of its continuing Building Blocks of Success series for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms interested in strengthening their…

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IDFPR Announces Landmark Legislation to Launch Illinois Consumer Financial Protection into the Digital Age

Proposals would establish critical consumer protections for cryptocurrencies and other digital assets and solidify Illinois’s status as a national leader in defending consumers against financial predators CHICAGO – The Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Eight Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration Illinois Racing Board Alyssa Murphy will serve as a Member of the Illinois Racing Board.* Alyssa Murphy…

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Harper Square Cooperative Disaster Declaration for Deadly Fire

Chicago – On Feb 17th, Governor JB Pritzkerannounced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the Harper Square Cooperative Apartment building which was devastated by a fire on January 25th.…

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IDOA and State Fire Marshal Stresses Safety While Farmers Work in or around Grain Bins

Nationally, more than 900 cases of grain engulfment have been reported with a fatality rate of 62% in the past 50 years Springfield, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), along with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal…

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Gov. Pritzker Joins Reproductive Freedom Alliance

Chicago—Governor JB Pritzker today announced he will join the Reproductive Freedom Alliance (RFA), a non-partisan group of state Governors focused on working alongside one another to identify best practices for legislative and executive action…

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Gov. Pritzker's Smart Start Illinois Tour Continues with Visits to Peoria and Macomb

PEORIA — Governor JB Pritzker continued his Smart Start Illinois education tour today with visits to Valeska Hinton Early Childhood Education Center in Peoria and MacArthur Early Childhood Center in Macomb. These visits highlighted his…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Over $21 Million in Grants for New Wastewater Infrastructure

Six Illinois Communities to Receive Funding Through Illinois EPA Unsewered Communities Construction Grants SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Director John J. Kim on Feb 17th, announced…

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New 861 Area Code is Coming to the Illinois 309 Area Code Region

Springfield, IL – With new telephone numbers in west-central Illinois in high demand, the Illinois Commerce Commission approved the implementation of the new 861 area code to overlay the existing 309 area code region. The 309 area code serves…

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Governor Pritzker Launches Smart Start Tour with Visits to Springfield, Metro East, and Mount Vernon

The visits highlight transformative early childhood education investments proposed in the FY24 budget SPRINGFIELD— Governor JB Pritzker launched the ‘Smart Start’ statewide tour, visiting locations across the state to announce…

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Governor Pritzker Continues Smart Start Tour with Visit to Erie Neighborhood House in Chicago

The visit shares transformative early childhood education investments proposed in the FY24 budget CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker joined local and community leaders as well as childcare providers and parents at the Erie Neighborhood House in…

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Governor Pritzker Celebrates Small Black Businesses in Chicago

Black McDonald’s Operators Association and Three Black-Owned Businesses Honored at Event CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker on Feb 17th, joined the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and the Black McDonald's Operators…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Bill Removing Barriers to Access for Legal Gender Change Process

Chicago-- Governor JB Pritzker on Feb 17th, signed HB0009 into law, authorizing an easier process for individuals seeking to change the gender listed on their birth certificate. Previously, amending a birth certificate’s gender marker required…

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Governor Pritzker Appoints James Rivera as Illinois State Fire Marshal

SPRINGFIELD— On Feb 17th, Governor JB Pritzker announced James Rivera has been appointed to serve as Illinois State Fire Marshal. Rivera most recently served as Deputy District Chief for the Chicago Fire Department. “With more than…

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Governor Pritzker Names Arnie Rivera New Head of Illinois Tollway Board

Chicago-- On Feb 17th, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Tollway announced the appointment of Arnie Rivera as the new chair of the Illinois Tollway Board. Rivera, who currently serves as Chief Administrative and Equity Officer at Navy Pier, will…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - February 17, 2023

On Feb 17th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: SB 1001 Description: Reduces fees for First Class Wine Makers. Action: Signed Effective:…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Exec. Order Submitted to Rename Illinois Emergency Management Agency to Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS)

Springfield – On Feb 17th, Governor JB Pritzker submitted an Executive Order to change the official name of the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS). This…

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Governor Pritzker Proposes Transformative, Generational Investments in FY24 Budget

Building on fiscal progress, Governor proposes investments in education, efforts to fight poverty SPRINGFIELD – Building on four years of fiscal progress, Governor Pritzker’s fifth balanced budget proposal will make transformative,…

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Governor Pritzker’s Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Makes Historic Investments in Higher Education

Investments Will Help Close Equity Gaps and Increase Affordability SPRINGFIELD – Higher education leaders across the state cheer Governor JB Pritzker’s budget announcement on Feb 15th, which includes a fiscal year 2024 higher education…

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Oswego Highway-Rail Crossing Project Gets Approval from ICC

Springfield, IL– The Illinois Commerce Commission approved a public safety project for a highway-rail crossing in Oswego, Kendall County. The agreement requires Illinois Railway, LLC Railroad Company (IR) to install new automatic warning…

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Governor Pritzker Announces the 2023 Order of Lincoln Recipients

Award is state’s highest honor for professional achievement and public service CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on Feb 14th, announced the 2023 recipients of the Order of Lincoln, the state’s highest honor for professional…

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Effingham Highway-Rail Crossing Project Gets Approval from ICC

Springfield, IL– The Illinois Commerce Commission approved a public safety project for a highway-rail crossing in Effingham. The agreement requires CSX Transportation Inc. (CSX) to install new automatic warning devices at the Wabash Avenue…

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ISP, IDHS, and TASC Expanding Deflection Initiative to Improve Communities

SPRINGFIELD –The Illinois State Police (ISP) and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), with review and assessment being conducted by the Illinois Criminal Justice Authority (ICJIA), continue to expand the Deflection and Pre-Arrest…

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Illinois Department of Revenue Reminds Eligible Taxpayers to Take Advantage of Senior Citizens Tax Deferral Program

Program Expanded and Income Thresholds Increased this Year Chicago -The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) on Feb 14th, reminded senior citizens about the availability of the Senior Citizens Real Estate Tax Deferral Program which allows…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Seven Appointments and One Director to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority Keith Grant will serve as a member of the Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - February 10, 2023

On Feb 10th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 0045 Description: Amends the Election Code surrounding Judicial Subcircuits. Action: Signed Effective: Immediately Bill Number: HB 0268 Description: Creates…

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Illinois State Police Metropolitan Enforcement Groups and Drug Task Forces Successes in 2022

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP), working with local law enforcement and community partners, continues to decrease the supply of opioids and other drugs devastating many neighborhoods. In 2022, the ISP Metropolitan Enforcement…

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Lincoln Tomb Distributing New Education Cards During Black History Month

Cards commemorate Black leaders interred at Oak Ridge Cemetery SPRINGFIELD – Every guest who visits the Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site during Black History Month in February will receive a set of four new history education cards featuring…

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Illinois Conservation Police Recruiting New Class of Trainees

Springfield –The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Office of Law Enforcement is seeking applicants for the position of conservation police officer trainee. Conservation police officers enforce state laws intended to protect…

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IDNR Seeking Summer Instructors for Urban Fishing Program Clinics

Positions available at locations around the state SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is seeking applicants for instructors for summer fishing clinics through the department's Urban Fishing Program. Fishing…

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Fly Like An Eagle And Make A Sober Ride Home The Chief Goal Of This Year’s Super Bowl

Intercepting the keys of impaired drivers at your party is a win for everyone SPRINGFIELD – This Super Bowl Sunday, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and numerous local police and sheriff’s departments…

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Free Income Tax Preparation Assistance Available

CHICAGO - Low-to-moderate income families and older adults needing assistance filing their 2022 income taxes can receive free help through several trusted programs across Illinois. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), American Association of Retired…

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ICC 2022 Supplier Diversity Report Shows Positive Gains in Spending by 'Big 6' Utilities

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Commerce Commission’s Office of Diversity and Community Affairs (ODCA) in its 2022 Annual Report finds that diverse spending by the state’s largest investor-owned utilities has continued for a second…

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Illinois State Police Public Safety Enforcement Group Reduces Violence In 2022

Both homicides and nonfatal shootings decrease EAST ST. LOUIS – The Illinois State Police (ISP) Public Safety Enforcement Group (PSEG) is an investigative unit created in 2019 comprised of both state and local law enforcement agencies and…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $40 Million Grant Opportunity to Develop Megasites

First-of-its-kind grant opportunity creates investment-ready industrial sites to attract businesses and spur economic growth CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker on Feb 6th, joined state and local leaders, along with the Department of Commerce and…

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OSFM Stresses Safety During Burn Awareness Week: February 5-11, 2023

The CDC reported 276,086 people received medical care for unintentional burn injuries in 2020. Springfield, IL - National Burn Awareness Week February 5-11, is an initiative of the American Burn Association. During this time, burn, fire, and life…

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Portions of Illinois Beach State Park to be Inaccessible During Construction

Erosion mitigation project moving forward SPRINGFIELD – Access to portions of Illinois Beach State Park North Unit will be limited effective on, Monday, Feb. 6, to accommodate construction of a major erosion mitigation project in Lake…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Three Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE BOARD Marlon McClinton will serve as a Member on the Illinois Community…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - February 3, 2023

On Feb 3rd, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: SB 1836 Description: Amends the Nurse Practice Act by making changes to contracts between foreign nurse staffing agencies, nurses, and healthcare facilities.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Seven Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration TORTURE INQUIRY AND RELIEF COMMISSION Brian Richardson will serve as a Member on the Torture Inquiry and…

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ICC Approves Highway-Rail Public Safety Improvements for Randolph County

Springfield, IL –The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved Stipulated Agreements advancing two highway-rail crossing safety improvements projects in Randolph County. Both agreements require Illinois Central Railroad Company to install new…

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IDPH Reports 4 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

White House and Governor Pritzker Announce Emergency Declarations to Expire in May; IDPH Pledges to Remain Vigilant and Protect Those Most At-Risk CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Feb 3rd, that the CDC is…

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IDPH Reports 5 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

White House and Governor Pritzker Announce Emergency Declarations to Expire in May; IDPH Pledges to Remain Vigilant and Protect Those Most At-Risk CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Feb 3rd, that the CDC is…

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IBHE Awards $10.5 Million in Second Round of GEER Grants to Illinois Institutions

Funds will be used to provide supports for students most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) have awarded $10.5 million in grants through the Governor’s…

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Illinois Ranked Number One for Workforce Development

The ranking highlights Illinois’ continued job and economic growth CHICAGO — Illinois has been named the number one leader for workforce development in the Midwest region for 2022, up from number two in 2021. The ranking highlights…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Inaugural Cohort of the Governor’s Office Academy of Leadership (G.O.A.L.)

Advancing Excellence in Public Service Leadership SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) announced on Feb 3rd, the participants of the inaugural cohort of the Governor’s Office…

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Illinois DCFS Offers College Scholarships to Current and Former Youth in Care

DCFS Scholarship Program applications accepted until March 31 CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services is currently accepting applications for the 2023 DCFS Scholarship Program. Through the program, a minimum of 53…

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Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Celebrates Black History Month

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) launched its annual Black History Month campaign – designed to honor and uplift the contributions of Black Illinoisians, business owners and leaders. As part of the…

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Illinois EPA Invests Over $75 Million in Wastewater and Drinking Water Projects in Second Quarter of FY23

Over $13 Million in Loan Forgiveness Granted to Loan Recipients SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is announcing the issuance of $75,867,318 in water infrastructure loans to local governments and water…

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Rebuilding Illinois I-57 Projects in South Suburbs Complete

$82.1 million investment to improve safety and mobility along the corridor CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Feb 1st, that a series of improvement projects along Interstate 57 made possible by Gov. JB…

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Shake Shake Shake – Earthquake Awareness Month and the Great ShakeOut Drill

Springfield– February is Earthquake Awareness Month and a perfect time to sign up for the international ShakeOut Drill in October. Schools, workplaces, and individuals are encouraged to sign up for the October 19, 2023 Great ShakeOut Day to…

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1099-G Tax Forms Available for Claimants of Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Electronic, Hard Copy Forms Ready for Tax Filing SPRINGFIELD – 1099-G tax forms are now available for claimants who received unemployment insurance (UI) benefits in 2022, the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Feb…

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Crypto Lender to Pay Illinois Investors More Than $400,000

SOS Giannoulias Warns Illinoisans to Ensure Financial Advisors Are Registered With State Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced that Illinois will receive $424,500 as part of the $45 million multi-state settlement with Nexo Capital, Inc.…

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IDOI Announces 6% + Jump in ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment

Plan year 2023 marks the 10th year for ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment nationwide Chicago – The final record-breaking numbers for the 2023 Open Enrollment Period (OEP) reveal that nationwide, more than 16.3 million people selected an…

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Governor Pritzker Announces End of State COVID-19 Disaster Proclamation

CHICAGO —Governor JB Pritzker announced the state’s public health emergency will end on May 11, 2023, aligning the state with the federal government’s decision to end the national public health emergency. Ensuring Illinois’…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Fourteen Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS AFFORDABLE HOUSING ADVISORY COMMISSION Angela Brooks will serve as a Member of the Illinois…

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Construction Begins at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Campus

Funding supports renovations for Altgeld and Illini Hall Champaign – Governor JB Pritzker on Jan 30th, announced construction will begin on the $100 million investment for the Illini Hall Replacement and Altgeld Hall Renovation Project at…

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Deadline Nears for State and Local Government 2022 Injury and Illness Electronic Submission

SPRINGFIELD – Certain state and local government establishments are required to electronically submit 2022 summary data about work-related injuries and illnesses. OSHA Form 300A, The Summary of Work-Related Injuries and Illnesses, must be…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $15 Million Preservation Investment at Historic Old State Capitol in Springfield

Site will be closed to public while work is underway Springfield – The Old State Capitol State Historic Site in Springfield is receiving long overdue attention thanks to a $15.1 million preservation investment made possible by Governor JB…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - January 27, 2023

On Jan 27, 2023, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 4412 Description: Sets statewide renewable energy project siting standards and establishes framework for rate relief for downstate energy consumers. Action:…

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IDHR Releases Public Safety and Fair Housing Guidebook with UIC Law School Fair Housing Legal Support Center and Clinic

The Guidebook helps local governments, public officials, housing providers and others explore best practices CHICAGO – On Jan 30th, the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) released the “Fair Housing Implications of Nuisance and…

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Governor Pritzker Celebrates Opening of New Student Center at College of Lake County in Waukegan

The 63,000 square foot facility boasts classrooms, laboratory space, a library, and more WAUKEGAN — Governor JB Pritzker along with local and state officials celebrated the ribbon-cutting for the new Student Center at the College of Lake…

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Dorothy Abreu to Step Down as Tollway Chair

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker accepted the resignation of Tollway Chair Dorothy Abreu, as she leaves to focus on her health challenges. “I appreciate Dorothy’s service and dedication to both the Tollway and the people of…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Improvements to Alpine Road Transportation Corridor in Rockford

Project is first step in revitalizing corridor from U.S. 20 to Charles Street ROCKFORD — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined on Jan 26th, by local officials and community leaders to announce…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $2.6 Million Investment to Further Strengthen Aviation Mechanic Pipeline in Rockford

Investment Will Support Workforce Training and Development Program, Including 80 Apprenticeships in High-Demand Aviation Maintenance Industry ROCKFORD - Governor JB Pritzker on Jan 26th, joined AAR CORP. and local officials and partners to…

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Illinois EPA Announces Lead Service Line Inventory Grant Recipients

$2 Million Being Provided to Local Governments for Development of Lead Service Line Inventories SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim on Jan 26th, announced Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI)…

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Governor Pritzker Reminds Eligible Taxpayers to Take Advantage of Earned Income Tax Credit

CHICAGO - With thousands of Illinoisans failing to take advantage of savings offered by the federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and state Earned Income Credit (EIC) each tax season, Governor JB Pritzker is reminding qualifying taxpayers to claim…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $13 Million for Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program Expansion

Program Expands Capacity by 40 Percent in Second Year to Serve an Estimated 1,400 Diverse Students CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Jan 27th, awarded $13 million to 30…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Key Appointments

Springfield— Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: Marc Smith will continue to serve as Director of the Illinois Department of Children…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Departure of Deputy Governor Christian Mitchell

Chicago, IL -- On Jan 27th, Governor JB Pritzker announced the upcoming departure of Deputy Governor Christian Mitchell, who has overseen Environment, Infrastructure, and Public Safety since the beginning of the Governor’s first term. Prior to…

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Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs Announces 2022 Employee of the Year

Springfield, IL - IDVA Director Terry Prince announced on Jan 25th, that Anthony Hernandez, Veteran Service Officer (VSO) was selected as the IDVA 2022 Employee of the Year. Anthony has served as an IDVA VSO for five years and was chosen from a…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Illinois Has Paid Off Remaining Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund Debt

SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Jan 25th, that the state has officially repaid the remaining $1.36 billion unemployment insurance (UI) Trust Fund debt. The payment was…

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IDHR Director Jim Bennett's Statement on Signing of Supplemental Appropriations Act (HB0969)

CHICAGO — In Illinois, we are committed to preventing and addressing hate crimes and bias incidents across the state. Thanks to Governor Pritzker’s courageous leadership and the ongoing support of the Illinois General Assembly, a $5…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $113.8 Million Investment in Downstate Transit

Latest funding round boosts total to $337.8 million for Illinois transit providers DECATUR — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) on Jan 24th, announced that $113.8 million has been awarded to downstate…

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Secretary of State Giannoulias Executes Settlement Agreement with Carvana

Carvana admits wrongdoing; agrees to consumer safeguards and to conform to Illinois law Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced a settlement agreement on Jan 24th, with online used-car retailer Carvana, which admitted to violating…

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Capital Development Board Announces Recipients of Early Childhood Construction Grant

Funding supports the construction and renovation of early childhood facilities in Illinois Springfield – The Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB) on Jan 24th, announced the recipients of the Early Childhood Construction Grant (ECCG)…

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Heavy Snow to Impact Travel through January 25, 2023

Slick, slippery conditions, much longer travel times expected SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation is warning the public that winter weather will affect much of the state this evening through Wednesday, creating slick and…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - January 24, 2023

On Jan 24th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 0969 Description: Amends FY23 Budget with supplemental funds. Action: Signed Effective:…

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Staying Warm and Safe this Winter Starts with Heating Equipment and Carbon Monoxide Safety

Nearly half of all home heating fires occurred in December, January, and February Springfield, IL -- Illinoisans will be turning up their thermostats to stay warm for the rest of the winter season, which brings an increased risk for home fires and…

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Building Blocks of Success: IDOT Announces February Dates for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Workshops

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting free virtual workshops in February as part of its continuing Building Blocks of Success series for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms interested in strengthening their…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Six Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION James Anderson will serve as a Member of the Illinois State Board of…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Statement on Decision in Protect Illinois Communities Act Lawsuit

Chicago, IL -- Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement on the decision by Effingham County Judge Morrison on the Protect Illinois Communities Act: “This decision is not surprising. Although disappointing, it is the initial result…

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Secretary of State Giannoulias Reveals Rejected Vanity Plates in 2022

Small percentage prohibited for violating the state’s vehicle code There will be no PEEPEE, SUKIT or DUCKYOU for Illinois drivers. Those are just a few of the nearly 400 requests for vanity and personalized license plates that were…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Key Appointments

Springfield, IL -- Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: Illinois Department of Natural Resources Natalie Finnie will serve as Director of…

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On Jan 23rd, Governor JB Pritzker Took the Following Bill Action

Bill Number: HB 4285 Description: Amends procurement and construction capabilities of public universities and raises the annual gross sale threshold for businesses under the BEP Act. Action: Signed Effective: Immediately Bill Number: SB…

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Illinois Department of Corrections and Lewis University Launch New Prison Education Program at Sheridan Correctional Center

Romeoville, IL – Last week, Lewis University began its Spring semester of classes at several locations, including its new program inside Sheridan Correctional Center. The 19 enrolled students began a new journey as the initial cohort of Lewis…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Issues Next Round of Transporter Licenses

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) on Jan 19th, issued 33 Transporter licenses, successfully closing the 2022 application pool. These licenses are in addition to the 88 Craft Grow licenses and 54 Infuser licenses…

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Pritzker Administration Relaunches 'Opening Doors' Homebuyer Assistance Program With Additional $8 Million

Down Payment Assistance Program Helping Break Down Key Barriers to Homeownership CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker on Jan 19th, announced the reopening of a homeownership program designed to help working-class families and underrepresented…

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Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators Appoints Director Mueller of Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice as Board Secretary

CHICAGO – The Council of Juvenile Justice Administrators (CJJA), a national organization devoted to improving juvenile justice practices, recently appointed Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ) director Heidi Mueller to its executive…

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IBHE Approves Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendations

Budget recommendations will help ensure a strong and equitable higher education ecosystem SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) approved a fiscal year 2024 budget recommendation that increases funding to support the…

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Illinois Payroll Jobs, Unemployment Rate Stable in December

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Jan 20th, that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.7 percent, while nonfarm payrolls were almost unchanged, down by just -800 in December, based on…

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2023 Illinois Tax Filing Season Begins January 23, 2023

Taxpayers encouraged to use improved, free tax-filing system CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) will begin accepting 2022 state individual income tax returns on Monday, January 23, the same date that the Internal Revenue Service…

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IDFPR Announces Updates for Upcoming Social Equity Criteria License Lottery

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation ("IDFPR") announced on Jan 18th, two key updates for the upcoming Social Equity Criteria Lottery for the next round of adult use cannabis dispensary licenses in…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

On Jan 18th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 0240 Description: Healthcare omnibus that makes several changes to statute including around nursing homes, ambulance payments, hospitals, podiatrists, and…

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Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias Releases Comprehensive Transition Team Report

Report serves as a road map to modernize the office, transform operations, and upgrade services Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias on Jan 17th, released his Transition Team's report that will serve as a blueprint for modernizing the…

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Illinois EPA Announces $4 Million in Loan Forgiveness to the City of Sycamore to Replace Lead Service Lines

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim on Jan 17th, announced $4,111,200 million in funding to the City of Sycamore (DeKalb County) to replace lead service lines in the community. The funding is provided through the Illinois…

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Illinois Human Services Seeks to Educate SNAP Households to Prepare for USDA’s Return of SNAP Benefits to Pre-Pandemic Levels

Illinois Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Program Serves More Than 2 Million Customers CHICAGO, IL -- The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) announced on Jan 17th, that per the federal USDA Food and Nutrition Service,…

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January 18: IBHE to Vote on Fiscal Year 2024 Higher Education Recommended Budget

SPRINGFIELD – On, January 18th, the Board will vote on the fiscal year 2024 recommended budget for higher education. The budget recommendations invest in achieving the three goals of the higher education strategic plan – A Thriving…

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Illinois EPA Announces Notice of Funding Opportunity for County Solid Waste Planning

$500,000 Available to Assist in Implementing Solid Waste Planning Obligations SPRINGFIELD —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim on Jan 17th, announced a new funding opportunity to assist counties and…

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Governor Pritzker Proclaims January 16-22 Community Risk Reduction Week in Illinois

The fire service responds to a growing number of medical calls for service, surpassing 80% of total call volume in some communities. Springfield, IL - The State of Illinois Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Task Force on Jan 17th, announced Governor…

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Department on Aging Seeks Nominations for Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame

Springfield, IL – The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is now accepting nominations for the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame, open to adults aged 65 and older who excel in the categories of community service, education, performance and/or…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Sweeping Reproductive Rights Protections Into Law

Legislation protects health care providers from legal action, expands guaranteed insurance coverage, and increases reproductive health access Chicago -- On Jan 13th, Governor JB Pritzker signed HB4664, a reproductive rights and gender affirming…

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IBHE Increases Number Of Nursing School Grants And Nurse Educator Fellowships Awarded

Awards and fellowships will help meet healthcare workforce needs in Illinois SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) has awarded 11 nursing school grants, totaling $750,000, and 40 nurse educator fellowships, totaling…

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Governor Pritzker Invited to World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos

Governor to Speak on Panels Concerning Energy and Climate, Infrastructure and Legislative Achievements Chicago, IL -- Governor Pritzker will travel to Davos, Switzerland next week to speak at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting and promote…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Appointments to Four State Agencies

Springfield, IL -- As Governor Pritzker begins his second term in office, the administration has announced the following personnel appointments to Illinois State Agencies: Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) Raven DeVaughn…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Six Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS STATE POLICE MERIT BOARD Michelle Dawn Carrera will serve as a Member on the Illinois State…

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Lt. Governor Stratton's Statement On Reproductive Rights Protections Signed Into Law

Springfield — In Illinois, we protect the right to bodily autonomy. The sweeping legislation signed into law on Jan 13th, is another step we are taking in our mission to ensure people can make medical decisions about their bodies without fear.…

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Secretary of State Offices to Close for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced that all offices and facilities will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. - Offices and Driver Services facilities operating on a Tuesday through Saturday schedule will…

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Illinois State Police Enforcement Leads to Dramatic Decrease in Chicago Area Expressway Shootings in 2022

Expressway shootings down 47%, injury shootings down 50%, homicides down 88% CHICAGO – Due in large part to increased enforcement efforts and technology, the Illinois State Police (ISP) is reporting the total number of Chicago area…

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Governor Pritzker Celebrates Construction Milestone at the Veterans' Home at Quincy

New renovations create state-of-the-art residential long-term care and independent living facilities for Illinois veterans QUINCY — On Jan 12th, Governor JB Pritzker joined local, state, and community leaders to celebrate the final…

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State Tackling Harmful Lake Michigan Shoreline Erosion at Illinois Beach State Park

Two projects aim to curb erosion of beach and natural habitats SPRINGFIELD – Two ground-breaking projects underway at Illinois Beach State Park will help protect precious shoreline from erosion caused by Lake Michigan waves and inform future…

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Illinois Department of Labor Highlights Local Emphasis Program Focusing on Food Processors

Employers Encouraged to Utilize On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor’s (IDOL) On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program is joining the U.S. Department of Labor’s…

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New State Water Plan Spotlights 13 Critical Water-Related Challenges For Illinois

Social justice, climate change impacts integrated into plan for first time SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Water Plan, which serves as a blueprint for addressing key water-related challenges in the state over the next decade, has been…

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Pritzker Administration Announces a $500,000 fine for Quartz Health Insurance Corporation for Violation of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act

Chicago – The Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) announced on Jan 11th, a $500,000 fine for Quartz Health Insurance Corporation for violating the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) as revealed in the Department's…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Statement on the Inauguration of 103rd General Assembly

Springfield -- Governor Pritzker issued the following statement regarding Jan 11th’s inauguration of members of the 103rd Illinois General Assembly “My most heartfelt congratulations go out to all the members of the Illinois House…

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Lt. Governor Stratton's Statement on the Inauguration of the 103rd General Assembly

Springfield — New and returning voices are joining us to build the road ahead. Congratulations to members of the Illinois House of Representatives and the Senate who were sworn into office on Jan 11, 2023. Thank you for having the heart to…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Statement on the Passage of Paid Leave for All Workers Act

Springfield, IL -- Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement on the passage of SB208, the Paid Leave for All Workers Act: “Every working Illinoisan knows that sometimes unavoidable circumstances prevent you from doing your job.…

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Newly Installed Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias Issues Comprehensive Executive Ethics Order

Keeping a promise he made during his campaign, new Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias signed a wide-ranging Executive Ethics Order shortly after taking office. “During my campaign, I pledged to issue, implement and enforce a…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Banning Assault Weapons and Sale of High-Capacity Magazines

Illinois Becomes Ninth State to Institute Assault Weapons Ban SPRINGFIELD – Standing alongside lawmakers and gun control activists, Governor Pritzker signed the Protect Illinois Communities Act banning the sale and distribution of assault…

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Governor Pritzker's Statement on the Passage of Protect Illinois Communities Act Banning Assault Weapons

SPRINGFIELD – Following the passage of the assault weapons ban by both the House and Senate, Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement. “For a long time now, I and many other leaders in the Illinois General Assembly have…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on Passage of the Protect Illinois Communities Act

Springfield — Gun violence impacts us all. In Illinois, we are saying “enough is enough” to the trauma and pain of mass shootings. The General Assembly passed legislation that enacts common-sense measures that will save lives and…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

On Jan 9th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: SB1720 Description: Amends the FY 2023 Budget Implementation Act. Action: Signed Effective:…

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IDOC Launches Data Indicator Tool in Partnership with the Women’s Justice Institute and New York University Marron Institute

Springfield, IL – On, January 9, 2023, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC), in partnership with the Women’s Justice Institute (WJI), launched an online Indicator Tool for IDOC's prison and parole population data as well as a…

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Governor Pritzker Embarks on Second Term with Renewed Optimism and Hope for Illinois’ Future

Monday, January 9th, 2023 *Remarks As Prepared For Delivery* During the campaign last year, I drove all across the state, and I couldn’t help but notice some signs in people’s yards that said, “FIRE PRITZKER.” I was…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on the Inauguration of the Pritzker/Stratton Administration’s Second Term

Springfield — On Jan 9th, I am proud to begin a second term as Lieutenant Governor of Illinois. I am honored for the opportunity to serve people from all walks of life, from every community in this state, because our administration is…

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Honoring Illinois' Fallen

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance of: Firefighter Chief…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Second Term Agency Transitions

Springfield -- As Governor Pritzker concludes his first term in office and approaches his second inauguration, the administration announced the following personnel transitions at Illinois state agencies: Illinois Department of Natural Resources…

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Governor Pritzker’s Statement on House Action

SPRINGFIELD – Following the Illinois House of Representatives taking action on several bills on Jan 6th, Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement. For months lawmakers and advocates have been hard at work negotiating two very…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Record-Setting Year for Adult Use Cannabis Sales

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation announced on Jan 6th, that 2022 set adult use cannabis sales records in all categories it tracks. This includes number of items sold, sales totals to Illinois and…

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IDFPR Releases Annual Consumer Lending Trends Report

Report Analyzes Select Consumer Loan Products in Illinois From January 2012 Through December 2021 CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Financial Institutions has announced the release of its…

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Governor Pritzker Visits Ball Elementary School to Highlight Investments in Early Childhood Education

The visit highlighted the Preschool for All program, which supports young children as they prepare to enter school SANGAMON COUNTY — On Jan 5th, Governor JB Pritzker along with local and community leaders visited Ball Elementary School in…

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Illinois Conservation Foundation Accepting Applications For 2023 Conservation Achievement Scholarships

SPRINGFIELD – Applications are being accepted by the Illinois Conservation Foundation for the 2023 Conservatoin Achievement Scholarship program. The foundation annually awards scholarships to outstanding high school seniors in Illinois…

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Jesse White Announces Organ/Tissue Donor Registry Hits 7.5 Million Registrants

Secretary of State Jesse White announced today that the state’s organ/tissue donor registry reached 7.5 million registrants. “I am so proud that Illinoisans have shown their giving and caring spirit by signing up for this lifesaving…

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State Receives Donation of Large, Modern Office Building in Marion, Illinois, Valued at $4.5 Million

The donated facility will allow the State to realize further savings and operational benefits by consolidating leases and downstate agency operations. MARION, IL - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services…

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Governor Pritzker Highlights Investments in Early Childhood Initiatives During Visit to Carole Robertson Center for Learning in Chicago

CHICAGO — On Jan 4th, Governor JB Pritzker visited the Carole Robertson Center for Learning in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago to highlight historic investments in early childhood education under his administration. The Governor was…

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New Laws Taking Effect in 2023 Impact Employers, Employees

New laws expand bereavement rights, increase minimum wage SPRINGFIELD – As the New Year begins, employers and employees across the State should be aware of new laws taking effect that impact workplace rights. - “Legislation…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Shares Strides Made in 2022

Springfield, IL – On Dec 30th, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) shared accomplishments made in 2022 to support our state’s number one industry. From the opening of the state’s first craft grow…

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IDPH Reports 54 Illinois Counties at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

Illinoisans Urged to Get Fully Vaccinated for COVID-19 & Flu and to Stay Home from Holiday Gatherings and Seek Treatment Immediately if Sick IDPH to Follow the Lead of the CDC in Shifting from Daily to Weekly Reporting of COVID-19 Cases and…

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Employment Laws Poster Updated for 2023

Employers reminded to display for employees SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) on Dec 30th, released the 2023 version of the "Your Rights Under Illinois Employment Laws" Poster. Employees in the State are provided with…

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ICC Initiates Formal Investigation into 2nd Draft Renewable Energy Access Plan

Chicago, IL – The Illinois Commerce Commission recently initiated a formal proceeding to develop and adopt a Renewable Energy Access Plan (REAP), an actionable plan for meeting Illinois’ policy requirements for a clean electricity…

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Urgent Notice as of Thursday, December 29, 2022

Notice to Proceed Memo The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance…

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IDOT in 2022 Rebuilding Illinois Continues with Completed Projects, New Ones Planned for 2023 Across the State

SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), under the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman, continued to make history in 2022, delivering transformational projects across the…

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License Plate Fees for Low-Income Older Drivers, Persons With Disabilities to Drop in 2023

Springfield, IL – Eligible older adults and persons with disabilities will see their annual license plate renewal fee reduced by more than half in the new year, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) announced Wednesday, Dec 28, 2022. Under…

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Increase Coming for Illinois Minimum Wage on January 1, 2023

Minimum wage rising to $13 an hour on New Year’s Day SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois minimum wage is set to increase another dollar on Sunday, January 1, 2023, making the new required minimum wage $13 an hour. Minimum wage workers are…

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Secretary of State Offices to Close for the New Year's Holiday

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that all offices and facilities will be closed in observance of the New Year's holiday. - Offices and Driver Services facilities operating on a Monday through Friday schedule will be closed…

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Building Blocks of Success: IDOT Announces Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Workshops for January 2023

Springfield – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting free virtual workshops in January as part of its continuing Building Blocks of Success series for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms interested in strengthening their…

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IDOT, ISP Alcohol and Drug-Impaired Driving Ruins the Holidays

“Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police and local law enforcement agencies throughout the state are reminding motorists to drive sober this holiday season. The…

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ICC Staff Report: Low-Income Discount Rates for Electric and Natural Gas Residential Customers are Appropriate for Illinois

Comprehensive report includes recommendations for implementation Springfield, IL – Pursuant to a provision of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, a comprehensive study by the Illinois Commerce Commission (“Commission” or…

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IDPH Reports 88 Illinois Counties are at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

Illinoisans urged to Get Fully Vaccinated for COVID-19 & Flu & Stay Home from Holiday Gatherings and Seek Treatment Immediately if Sick IDPH also Announces it Will Follow the Lead of the CDC in Shifting from Daily to Weekly Reporting of…

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'It's Not a Game: Holiday Edition'

IDOT safety campaign on impaired driving, buckling up – with a seasonal twist SPRINGFIELD – 'Tis the season to celebrate the holidays with the gift of zero fatalities. Too important to be kept waiting under the tree or until the…

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Fall Freshmen Enrollment Up 5 Percent at Illinois Public Universities as Illinois Bucks Several National Trends

Illinois outpaces national enrollment growth rate of African American and Latino freshmen SPRINGFIELD – On Dec 21st, the Illinois Board of Higher Education released its first look report at enrollment data from the state’s public…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Timeline for Next Cannabis Dispensary License Lottery

CHICAGO – Following extensive conversations with lawmakers and other stakeholders, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has announced the timeline for the next round of cannabis dispensary licenses.…

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Illinois Celebrates 2022 Economic Development Milestones

Job Creators Receiving EDGE Credits Invest More Than $1 Billion in Communities – Exceeding 2019 Pre-Pandemic Investments CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic (DCEO) on Dec 21st, released the…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Reimagining Electric Vehicles Act Amendment

Offers Additional Incentives for Electric Vehicle Manufacturers to Relocate to or Expand in Illinois CHICAGO – Solidifying Illinois’ position as a leader in the emerging electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing industry, Governor JB…

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Winter Storm Featuring Snow, High Winds and Bitter Cold to Make Travel Treacherous

IDOT, ISP urge public to avoid unnecessary travel SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation and Illinois State Police announced Wednesday, Dec 21st, that a major winter storm is expected to create dangerous travel conditions…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - December 21, 2022

Bill Number: SB 1595 Description: Amends the Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act of the Illinois Municipal Code to extend the estimated dates of completion of redevelopment projects and the retirement of obligations issued to finance…

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Over 5.1 Million Illinoisans Have Received Anticipated Income and Property Tax Rebates

To date, over 96% of rebates have been issued totaling $1.042 billion CHICAGO – On Dec 21st, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Revenue announced that income and property tax rebates have been issued to over 5.1 million…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Bill Divesting State Funds from Russian Investments in Solidarity with Ukraine

Chicago - On Dec 21st, Governor Pritzker signed HB1293 into law, divesting Illinois state pension funds from Russian and Belarusian banks and companies effective immediately. This action was taken in response to the unjustified invasion of Ukraine…

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Clinton Nuclear Power Station Emergency Preparedness in November 2023

Enclosed is information regarding emergency preparedness for the Clinton Nuclear Power Station (NPS). This information is being provided so that the media may become familiar with the Illinois Plan for Radiological Accidents (IPRA) and the…

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Governor Pritzker Extends Illinois Cyber Security Commission Executive Order to Ensure Coordination Across All Levels of Government

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker on Dec 20th, extended the Illinois Cyber Security Commission’s executive order to support a strong coordination effort across all levels of government to enhance cyber security. The Commission will…

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2022 Clark County Tentative Multiplier Announced

Springfield, IL, Clark County has been issued a tentative property assessment equalization factor of 1.0568, according to David Harris, Director of the Illinois Department of Revenue. The property assessment equalization factor, often called the…

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Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris Named to Board of Trustees for Federation of Tax Administrators

Harris Elected to Represent Midwestern States CHICAGO – David Harris, director of the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR), has been elected to serve on the Federation of Tax Administrators (FTA) Board of Trustees. FTA is a national…

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Bookmark GettingAroundIllinois.com Now for Statewide Road Conditions This Winter

Before heading out, check IDOT site for 24/7 travel information SPRINGFIELD – With cold weather settling in and the first major winter storm of the season potentially on its way, the Illinois Department of Transportation is reminding the…

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Department on Aging and IDPH Directors Urge Older Adults to Get Vaccinated in New Holiday PSA

Springfield, IL – Director Paula Basta of the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) and Dr. Sameer Vohra, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), are coming together to encourage older adults across Illinois to get…

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ICC Offers Consumers Winter Energy Savings Tips

Springfield, IL – The war on Ukraine and supply chain constraints are key drivers of rising energy costs globally and here in Illinois. To keep your home warm this winter and save money by reducing energy costs, the Illinois Commerce…

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Expanded Bereavement Leave Rights Take Effect January 1, 2023

SPRINGFIELD – The Family Bereavement Leave Act will go into effect on January 1, 2023, expanding unpaid leave rights for employees across the State. As the New Year approaches, employers should be aware of the new requirements under the Act.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Staff Transitions

Chicago – Ahead of being sworn in to serve the state of Illinois for a second term, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following staff transitions. Emily Miller will now oversee both of Governor Pritzker’s Policy and Legislative teams…

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Pritzker Administration Launches $40 Million in Funding for the Energy Transition Community Grant Program as Part of CEJA

Funding is available for communities who have been impacted by fossil fuel plant or coal mine closures or significant reductions SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Four Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Brice Hutchcraft will serve as a Member on the Illinois Housing…

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ICC Approves Fayette County Highway-Rail Crossing Public Safety Project

Springfield, IL -- The Illinois Commerce Commission recently approved a Stipulated Agreement to improve public safety at the 1325 North grade crossing near St. Peter, Wheatland Township, in Fayette County. The track is designated at AAR/DOT…

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ICC Approves Stephenson County Public Safety Project

Springfield, IL -- The Illinois Commerce Commission recently approved a Stipulated Agreement to improve public safety at the North Harlem Center Road highway-rail grade crossing of the Chicago, Central & Pacific Railroad Company’s rack,…

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Illinois Community Reinvestment Act Proposed Rules Published

Division of Banking Also Announces Supervisor to Oversee Implementation of Historic Consumer Legislation Over State-Chartered Banks and Non-Depository Mortgage Lenders CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Proclamation of Passage for Workers' Rights Amendment

Constitutional amendment guarantees right to bargain for Illinois workers Chicago, IL -- Governor JB Pritzker on Dec 15th, celebrated the passage of the Workers' Rights Amendment to the Illinois Constitution. Governor Pritzker issued a…

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Drive Merry, Bright and Sober this Holiday Season

Illinois Conservation Police to enforce DUI laws during holiday season SPRINGFIELD – With the holidays in full swing, Illinois Conservation Police officer are partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation to remind motorists…

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Illinois Reaches a Year and a Half of Consecutive Job Growth in November

Statewide Unemployment Rate Up Slightly SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Dec 15th, that the unemployment rate increased +0.1 percentage point to 4.7 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased…

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Governor Pritzker Celebrates Historic Completion of Jane Byrne Interchange in Chicago

One of the largest projects ever undertaken by the state wraps up, improving safety, congestion, and travel options at key transportation hub CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) joined local…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

On Dec 14th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 0347 Description: Makes changes to the Sexual Assault Survivors Emergency Treatment Act to replace “pediatric” patients with patients “under…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Sean M. Smoot as Chairman of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board

CHICAGO – Originally appointed to the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (IETSB) by Governor JB Pritzker in 2020, Sean M. Smoot was confirmed to serve as Chairman by the entire Board. Previously, he served as…

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Pritzker Administration Releases More Than $37 Million in Funding for Five Innovation Hubs

Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker announced on Dec 13th, the release of $37.3 million to launch facilities for five hubs of the Illinois Innovation Network (IIN), created to accelerate job creation and economic growth through groundbreaking…

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Application Period Opens Thursday, December 15 for 2023 Cover Crop Program

Applications Available at 8 a.m. SPRINGFIELD, IL – Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) will open the fourth year of the Fall Covers for Spring Savings Program on December 15. Applications will be available at…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on the Signing of the Respect for Marriage Act

Chicago — On Dec 13th, for many couples in this country, fear was lifted, and love was confirmed. With the signing of the Respect for Marriage Act, we will have a law that protects same-sex and interracial unions. But this action is more than…

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Honoring State Senator Scott M. Bennett

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor and remembrance of: State Senator Scott M.…

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Governor Pritzker Orders State Flags Flown at Half-Staff in Honor of Senator Scott Bennett

Chicago -- Governor JB Pritzker on Dec 12th, signed a proclamation ordering all flags at State of Illinois facilities be flown at half-staff until sundown on Monday, December 19, in honor and remembrance of State Senator Scott Bennett, who passed…

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Statement on the Passing of State Senator Scott Bennett

Chicago — On Dec 9th, Illinois lost a dedicated public servant, an incredible leader, and a loving family man. I lost a fellow Illini and a friend. It is with a heavy heart that I learned of the passing of State Senator Scott Bennett. Scott…

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Governor Pritzker Statement on the Passing of State Sen. Scott Bennett

CHICAGO – Following the passing of state Sen. Scott Bennett (D-Champaign), Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement: “On Dec 9th, the state of Illinois mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant and devoted father.…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Historic Unemployment Insurance Agreement

Bipartisan bill eliminates pandemic unemployment debt and supports employers and workers CHICAGO – On Dec 8th, Governor JB Pritzker signed the historic Unemployment Insurance (UI) Agreement, finalizing a bipartisan plan to pay down $1.36…

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IDPH Reports 74 Illinois Counties are at an Elevated Community Level for COVID-19

CHICAGO - COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses are continuing to rise across Illinois following the Thanksgiving holiday, with 74 counties in Illinois rated at an elevated level for COVID-19 by the CDC. The Illinois Department of Public Health…

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Governor Pritzker Statement on the Hospitalization of State Sen. Scott Bennett

CHICAGO – In response to the hospitalization of state Sen. Scott Bennett (D-Champaign), Governor JB Pritzker released the following statement: “Scott Bennett is genuine, kind and dedicated to serving his constituents. MK and I are…

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Illinois Department of Human Services Announces $5 Million in Additional Funding to Expand Emergency Shelter Capacity

Funding will support those experiencing homelessness CHICAGO - As the colder months approach, the demand for shelter is growing and many shelter providers are already approaching maximum capacity. The increased demand could create difficulties for…

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The New 730 Area Code is Coming to Southern Illinois

Springfield, IL - The Illinois Commerce Commission has announced a new area code is coming to southern Illinois. The new 730 area code will “overlay” the existing 618 area code to address the depletion of prefixes available for…

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State of Illinois to Receive More than $350 Million in Federal Funding to Support Small Businesses

Illinois eligible to receive up to $354.6 million from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) to operate four programs CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of the Treasury on Dec 7th, announced…

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Honoring Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Please…

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Illinois Office of Tourism Celebrates Tourism Industry

Achievements with Excellence in Tourism Awards CHICAGO -The 2022 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism kicked off Monday, Dec. 5, at Navy Pier in Chicago, with the 2022 Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards ceremony…

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Governor Pritzker Signs SAFE-T Act Amendment

Trailer Bill Clarifies, Strengthens Original Bill as Transition to Cashless Bail Approaches CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker on Dec 6th, signed HB1095, a series of amendments and clarifications to the landmark SAFE-T Act, originally passed in…

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White Crane Wellness Center Wins Governor’s Engaging Aging Award

CHICAGO – White Crane Wellness Center is the recipient of a 2022 Governor’s Engaging Aging Award, presented annually to up to 13 community organizations that have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact in the lives of older…

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DoIT Celebrates Computer Science Education Week: December 5-11, 2022

Computer Science Education Week is recognized December 5-11 SPRINGFIELD – In honor of Computer Science (CS) Education Week, the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) is encouraging educators, families, and businesses…

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IDPH Reports 63 Illinois Counties are at Elevated COVID-19 Community Levels

Illinoisans urged to Get Fully Vaccinated for COVID-19 & Flu; Stay Home and Seek Treatment Immediately if you are Sick; State Reports 20,495 New COVID-19 Cases in Last Week CHICAGO – With COVID-19 cases and other respiratory viruses…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Six Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration STATE BOARD OF HEALTH Karen Phelan will continue to serve on the State Board of Health.* Phelan is…

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State of Illinois Awarded $86 Million in CDC Funding to Strengthen Public Health Infrastructure

Funding Will Support Pritzker Administration Efforts to Protect Public Health and Address Disparities in Health Outcomes Across Illinois CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced the State…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Highly Effective, New HIV Treatment to be Available in Illinois in 2023

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Dec 1st, on World AIDS Day that a new, long-acting HIV treatment called Cabenuva will become available to thousands of people in Illinois starting…

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Governor Pritzker, Obama Foundation, and State Lawmakers Dedicate Historical Marker to Commemorate President Obama’s Presidential Announcement

Marker located on lawn of Old State Capitol in Springfield SPRINGFIELD – On Nov 30th, Governor Pritzker, representatives from the Obama Foundation and the Old State Capitol Foundation, state lawmakers, and community members dedicated a…

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Illinois Department of Labor Recognizes Native Women’s Equal Pay Day

Pay transparency in private sector is theme of IDOL’s new enforcement initiatives SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) and its community partners are recognizing November 30th as Native Women’s Equal Pay Day, a…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Historic Agreement to Eliminate Pandemic Unemployment Debt, Protect Benefits for Workers

Agreement Will Supplement State’s Trust Fund and Rainy-Day Fund, Secure Employer Tax Credits, and Save Taxpayers Millions SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker announced on Nov 29th, an historic agreement to pay off the remaining $1.36…

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IDNR Monitoring Suspect Outbreaks of Avian Influenza During Fall Waterfowl Migration

SPRINGFIELD – At least 300 waterbirds, primarily snow geese, have died of suspected avian influenza at public hunting areas throughout southern Illinois, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has confirmed. Deceased wild birds…

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Building Blocks of Success: IDOT Announces December Dates for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program Workshops

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation is hosting free virtual workshops in December as part of its continuing Building Blocks of Success series for Disadvantaged Business Enterprise firms interested in strengthening their…

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Gov. Pritzker Appoints Erin A. Johnson to Serve as Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer

xCHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker announced Erin A. Johnson will serve as the state's Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer. She replaces Danielle Perry, who previously served as the CROO. "Erin Johnson's commitment to equity will serve Illinois…

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Jesse White Targets Holiday Scofflaws Abusing Disability Parking at Malls Statewide

Marks the 15th year the Secretary of State Police conducts stings Secretary of State Jesse White announced that Secretary of State Police will be conducting parking stings at shopping malls statewide throughout the holiday season and ticketing…

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Lanes Reopening Where Possible For Thanksgiving Travel

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Nov 22nd, that lanes that have been closed for construction will reopen, where possible, for the Thanksgiving holiday to minimize travel disruption. Non-emergency…

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Secretary of State Offices to Close for Thanksgiving Holiday

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that all offices and facilities will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, Nov. 24, and Friday, Nov. 25. Offices and Driver Services facilities operating on a Tuesday…

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IDPH Urges Public to Protect Loved Ones from COVID-19, Other Respiratory Viruses and Food-borne Illnesses During Thanksgiving Holiday

IDPH Urges Public to Protect Loved Ones from COVID-19, Other Respiratory Viruses and Food-borne Illnesses During Thanksgiving Holiday CHICAGO - With many families planning to gather for Thanksgiving, the Illinois Department of Public Health…

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OSFM Stresses the Importance of Cooking Safety to Prevent an Accidental Fire this Thanksgiving

Cooking causes half (49 percent) of all reported home fires and more than two of every five (42 percent) home fire injuries. Springfield, IL - Thanksgiving is the leading day for home fires involving cooking equipment, with four times the average…

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State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala Announces Retirement

Ayala worked in education for nearly 40 years, taking over superintendent job in 2019 Springfield, IL -- State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala has announced plans to retire at the end of her current contract, which concludes January…

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IDPH Urges Public to Protect Loved Ones from COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Viruses During Thanksgiving Holiday

Chicago – With COVID-19 cases and other respiratory viruses circulating in many areas of the state, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging Illinoisans to take precautions and celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday safely without…

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Williamson County Courthouse Creates Forever Families for 18 Children During National Adoption Day Celebration

November is Adoption Awareness Month in Illinois Marion, IL – Eighteen children in foster care will have their adoptions finalized on Friday, November 18, 2022 at the Williamson County Courthouse in Marion, joining 10 youth in care at a…

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Illinois Reaches 17 Consecutive Months of Job Growth in October

Statewide Unemployment Rate Slightly Up SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Nov 17th, that the unemployment rate increased +0.1 percentage point to 4.6 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by…

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Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program Provides $20 Million for Organizations at Risk of Terrorist Attack

Springfield, IL -- Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced a grant opportunity for not-for-profit organizations across Illinois. Available funding for this grant opportunity for the State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2023 Illinois Not-for-Profit…

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State of Illinois Launches $5 Million Grant Match Program to Spur Innovation in Cutting Edge Technologies

State-funded program provides matching grants to small businesses who have received federal SBIR/STTR funding to support entrepreneurship, commercialization, and innovation CHICAGO - Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and…

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Illinois Office of Tourism Announces 30 Small Businesses Inducted into the Illinois Made Program

Most diverse class of Illinois Makers to date recognizes small businesses with the goal of encouraging residents and visitors to travel throughout Illinois CHICAGO - Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Illinois EPA Invites 5th and 6th Grade Student Writers and Artists to Compete in the 36th Annual Poster, Poetry, and Prose Contest

New Contest for High School Students Added SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency is inviting fifth and sixth grade writers and artists from around Illinois to participate in this year’s Poster, Poetry, and Prose…

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State of Illinois Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week: November 14-20, 2022

SPRINGFIELD – The State of Illinois on Nov 14th, kicked off the eighth annual National Apprenticeship Week. To celebrate the occasion, Governor JB Pritzker issued a proclamation highlighting the importance of apprenticeships in expanding…

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Governor Pritzker Releases Five-Year Forecast Showing Projected Long-term Budgetary Deficits Nearly Eliminated

Illinois in best fiscal shape in decades SPRINGFIELD -- The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) released the annual Illinois Economic and Fiscal Policy Report showing under Governor Pritzker’s leadership Illinois is in…

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Pritzker Administration Announces More Than $1 Billion in Emergency Rental Assistance Disbursed to Renters and Landlords

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) on Nov 14th, announced that with the closure of the Illinois Rental Payment Program Round 2 (ILRPP2), nearly $1.02 billion in emergency rental assistance…

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New, Improved Weber Road and Interchange Opened, Celebrated in Will County

Romeoville, Bolingbrook project improves safety, mobility, quality of life ROMEOVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation was joined on Nov 14th, by officials and community leaders in Romeoville, Bolingbrook and Will County to…

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New Air Traffic Control Tower Supported by $6 Million From Rebuild Illinois Opens at Lewis University Airport

ROMEOVILLE – The Illinois Department of Transportation and Transportation Secretary Omer Osman on Nov 14th, celebrated the opening of a new air traffic control tower at Lewis University Airport, a $8 million project supported by $6 million…

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IDFPR Issues First Full, Social Equity Cannabis Dispensing Organization Licenses

First Social Equity-Owned Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses Issued CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced on Nov 10th, it has issued the first full adult use cannabis dispensing…

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Pritzker Administration Makes $8.75 Million in Forgivable Loans Available for Social Equity Cannabis Licensees

New Direct Forgivable Loan Program fully financed by the State will provide immediate capital to conditionally approved social equity licensees CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity…

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IDPH Announces More than 1.5 Million Illinoisans Have Received Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccines

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported that more than 1.5 million people in Illinois have received a dose of the new bivalent COVID-19 vaccines since they were authorized for use in September, with about 160,000 doses…

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Illinois Reaches Six Consecutive Months of Record Low Unemployment Claims

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Nov 7th, the state has recorded a new, unprecedented number of consecutive weeks below historic continued claims levels for regular unemployment insurance…

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Pritzker Administration Reopens Housing Assistance Program for Illinois Homeowners

Homeowners struggling to keep up with housing payments during the COVID-19 pandemic may now apply for up to $60,000 in assistance, doubling the assistance previously available CHICAGO – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)…

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West State Street Project Celebrated in Rockford

Multiyear effort improves safety, community mobility, quality of life ROCKFORD – The Illinois Department of Transportation was joined on Nov 4th, by local officials, community leaders and residents to celebrate the completion of the West…

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IEMA, ISFM, IDOL, and National Weather Service Team up with Winter Weather Preparedness Tips

SPRINGFIELD – Whether you’re at work, commuting, or at home, being ready for harsh, frigid storms can lead comfort and even survival. November is Winter Weather Preparedness Month, and Nov. 7-11 is Winter Weather Preparedness Week. The…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Investments in Child Care Focused on Supporting Providers and Working Families

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker, together with the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Division of Early Childhood (DEC), announced plans to further advance Illinois as the best state in the country for families to raise young…

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Illinois Reaches Six Consecutive Months of Record Low Unemployment Claims

SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today the state has recorded a new, unprecedented number of consecutive weeks below historic continued claims levels for regular unemployment insurance benefits. The most…

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Pritzker Administration Launches Effort to Strengthen Children’s Mental Health Care

IDPH, HFS and DHS Team up with UIC and American Academy of Pediatrics to Provide More Resources to Pediatricians and other Care Providers CHICAGO – The Administration of Governor JB Pritzker announced on Nov 1st, it is launching a new…

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Illinois DCFS presents inaugural Family First Act Summit

National, state and local stakeholders convene to strengthen outcomes for children and families served by the child welfare system CHAMPAIGN, IL – On Nov 1st, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), in partnership…

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Illinois EPA Invests Over $70 Million in Wastewater and Drinking Water Projects in First Quarter of FY23

Over $11 Million in Principal Forgiveness Granted to Loan Recipients SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) is announcing the issuance of $70,608,909 in water infrastructure loans to local governments and…

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Governor Pritzker and Ferrero Break Ground on $214 Million Kinder Bueno Production Facility in Bloomington

Bloomington location will serve as the first-ever U.S. Kinder Bueno production facility Bloomington — Governor JB Pritzker joined Ferrero North America, as well as state and local officials, for the groundbreaking of Ferrero’s…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Selection of Buyer of the Historic Chicago Damen Silos Location

State receives high bid of $6.52M; Sale of surplus property will save operating expenses and create economic opportunity for local communities. CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) on Nov…

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IDHS and DCEO Launch First-Ever Human Services Capital Grant Program

SPRINGFIELD - IDHS and DCEO have partnered to launch a first-of-its-kind, $15 million capital improvement projects for facilities of eligible not-for-profit human services providers located in Illinois. This is a competitive program that will make…

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Pritzker Administration Awards $8.6 Million for South Central Illinois (SCI) Training & Innovation Center

LITCHFIELD – Governor Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), local and state leaders on Oct 31st, announced the award of $8.6 million for a new South-Central Illinois (SCI) Training & Innovation…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Eight Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS RACING BOARD Patricia Saccone will serve as a Member on the Illinois Racing Board.* Saccone…

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Pritzker Administration Opens Second Round of Electric Vehicle Rebate Program for Illinois Residents

Program offers $4,000 rebate for purchase of an electric passenger vehicle or $1,500 rebate for purchase of an electric motorcycle SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Director John J. Kim on Nov 1st, announced the…

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Illinois Department Of Agriculture Announces Tax Credit For Agritourism

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced on Oct 27th, the Agritourism Liability Insurance Tax Credit program. This entitles entities or individuals who operate agritourism businesses in Illinois during 2022 and…

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Crain’s Chicago Business Names Illinois Department of Revenue Director David Harris a 2022 Notable Military Veteran Executive

CHICAGO – David Harris, director of the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) and a retired Major General in the United States Army and Illinois National Guard, has been named one of Crain’s 2022 Notable Military Veteran Executives.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Nearly $3 Million in Funding to Support Local Tourism Promotion Across the State

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Oct 27th, announced nearly $3 million in funding to support local tourism promotional efforts across the state through the Illinois…

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Illinois launches Safe Sleep Support Program to Address Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths

CHICAGO —The Pritzker administration announced on Oct 25th, an expansive Illinois Safe Sleep Support program. The program, led by 12 government and community agencies, aims to address sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), one of the leading…

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IDPH Offering $12 Million in Grants for Lead Abatement During Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

Following Drop in Child Lead Testing During COVID-19 Pandemic, Governor Pritzker and Lt. Governor Stratton join IDPH in Support of Lead Poisoning Awareness Campaign CHICAGO – As part of the State of Illinois’ efforts to protect…

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Governor Pritzker and CREATE Program Partners Celebrate Groundbreaking for Forest Hill Flyover and 71st Street Grade Separation Projects

New bridge will eliminate the most congested rail chokepoint in the Chicago Area CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker joined Chicago Region Environment and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program partners to break ground on the largest…

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Pritzker Adminstration Secures $14.4 Million To Provide New Markets For Underserved Farmers

Locally sourced produce, proteins and processed foods will be distributed to communities in need SPRINGFIELD, IL- The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) and Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) worked jointly to secure United States…

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Illinois Residents Join Millions Across the Country in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drill

SPRINGFIELD – On Oct 20th, more than 235,060 Illinois residents participated in the 2022 Great Shakeout Earthquake Drill, an increase of more than 7,527 residents from 2021. At 10:20 a.m. on Oct 20th, registered participants stopped what they…

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Governor Pritzker and CREATE Program Partners Celebrate Groundbreaking for Forest Hill Flyover and 71st Street Grade Separation Projects

CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker joined Chicago Region Environment and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program partners to break ground on the largest CREATE project, The Forest Hill Flyover (P3), to date at CSX Forest Hill Railroad Yard. The…

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Illinois launches Safe Sleep Support program to address Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths

CHICAGO —The Pritzker administration announced today an expansive Illinois Safe Sleep Support program. The program, led by 12 government and community agencies, aims to address sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), one of the leading causes…

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IDPH Offering $12 Million in Grants for Lead Abatement During Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

CHICAGO - As part of the State of Illinois' efforts to protect children from lead poisoning and in recognition of Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is offering $12 million in grant…

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Pritzker Administration Announces up to $30,000 in Mortgage Relief per Eligible Homeowners

Applications for Homeowners Affected by COVID-19 to Open this November CHICAGO – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) on Oct 19th, announced it is reopening a mortgage assistance program designed to assist homeowners…

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Statewide Payroll Jobs Up, Unemployment Rate Stable in September

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Oct 20th, that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.5 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +14,500 in September, based on preliminary data provided by…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $3.4 Million Released for Cairo Port Development

Next tranche of funding from over $40 million commitment to transformative Rebuild Illinois project CAIRO – Gov. Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Oct 18th, that $3.4 million has been released through Gov.…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Issues Operational Permits to First Social Equity Craft Grower, Infuser Licensees

Two Infusers join Craft Grow in Operational Status; First Woman-Owned Business Under CRTA SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced on Oct 18th, that two licensees were issued operational Infuser permits and…

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Pritzker Administration Announces a $1.25 million fine for Celtic Insurance Company for Violation of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act and the Network Adequacy and Transparency Act

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) announced on Oct 18th, a $1.25 million fine for Celtic Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Centene Corporation, for violating the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and…

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Pritzker Administration and IDPH Award up to $3.7 Million to Address Systemic Health Disparities Highlighted by COVID-19 Pandemic

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced on Oct 18th, that the state is awarding up to $3.7 million to 18 different organizations across Illinois to address systemic health disparities that…

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IDPH Reports Illinois Surpassed 1 Million Mark for Bivalent COVID-19 Booster Shots

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reported that more than 1.1 million Illinoisans have received a dose of the new, bivalent COVID-19 vaccines since they were approved for use in early September, including 207,000 doses in the…

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DCEO Launches Public Input Process for Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) Curriculum

DCEO seeks public input on Clean Jobs Workforce Curriculum for CEJA training programs SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Oct 17th, announced public listening sessions and additional…

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IDPH Stresses Need to Close Cancer Screening Gap Caused by COVID-19 Ahead of National Mammography Day

Governor JB Pritzker Issues Mammography Day Proclamation for Illinois; Number of People Screened for Breast Cancer Dropped Dramatically During COVID-19 Pandemic CHICAGO – With National Mammography Day approaching on October 21, Governor JB…

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Governor Pritzker Continues Effort to Adjust COVID-19 Requirements

Certain State Testing and Mask Requirements Lifted for Healthcare Workers and Long-Term Care Facilities CDC Requirements Remain in Place Chicago — As part of an ongoing effort to carefully roll back Illinois’s COVID-19 executive…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Launch of a Statewide PACE Program to Spur Commercial Investment in Clean Energy Renovations and New Construction

Chicago, IL – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Finance Authority on Oct 17th, announced the launch of a statewide PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) program to spur investment in electric vehicle charging stations, energy efficiency,…

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Governor Pritzker and Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. Announce New $68 Million Distribution Center in Princeton

New center will create more than 145 jobs; facility will be completed in 2024 PRINCETON — Governor JB Pritzker, Ollie's Bargain Outlet, Inc. (Ollie's), and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Oct 14th,…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Four Appointments to Boards and Commissions

ILLINOIS COMMISSION ON EQUITY AND INCLUSION Nina Harris will serve as a Member on the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion.* Harris is coming to the Commission from the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology, where she served as…

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Illinois Department of Corrections Announces Opening of Freedom Libraries in Partnership with Freedom Reads

Lincoln, IL – On Oct 12th, the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) and the national non-profit Freedom Reads announced the opening of five Freedom Libraries at Logan Correctional Center (Logan CC) in central Illinois. The libraries,…

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ICED names DoIT as Outstanding State Agency of the Year

Interagency Committee on Employees with Disabilities (ICED) promotes increased opportunity for employees with disabilities in state government SPRINGFIELD – The Interagency Committee on Employees with Disabilities (ICED) recognized the…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Latest Round of Healthcare Transformation Collaboratives, Providing Over $70 Million to Increase Access and Equity in Healthcare Statewide

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services has chosen six healthcare collaboratives for the State Fiscal Year 2023 cycle of the Healthcare Transformation Collaboratives program, which aims to close gaps in…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $119 Million Investment in Western Illinois University

Funding supports the construction of new Center for Performing Arts MACOMB – Governor JB Pritzker on Oct 7th, joined state and local officials to announce a $119 million investment for the construction of a Center for Performing Arts (CPA)…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Milestone for Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan; Local Governments Receive $250 Million for Transportation Needs

Historic capital program commitment reaches $1.5 billion for local projects SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation on Oct 6th, announced that the sixth and final $250 million installment as part of…

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Illinois Department of Corrections Announces Comprehensive College Education in Prison Policy

Springfield, IL -- October 3rd marked the first day that the Illinois Department of Corrections' (IDOC) new policy on post-secondary education went into effect across the state. This policy, written with input from experts from the Vera Institute of…

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City of Chicago Disaster Declaration for Building Explosion and Structural Collapse

Chicago – On Oct 4th, the Illinois Governor JB Pritzker announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the apartment building at Central and West End in the Austin neighborhood in Chicago…

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Governor Pritzker Proclaims October 12 as Walk to School Day

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation on Oct 3rd, announced that Illinois schools will join others throughout the world to celebrate International Walk to School Day on Wednesday, Oct. 12. Gov. JB Pritzker also has proclaimed…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Issues Operational Permits to First Social Equity Craft Grower, Infuser Licensees

First Adult Use Licenses Issued Under the CRTA Are Now Operational SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced on Oct 3rd, that Star Buds IL, a social equity Craft Grow licensee, was issued an operational…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Eleven Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS STATE MEDICAL BOARD Douglas Matzner will serve as a Member on the Illinois State Medical…

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Local Planning Efforts Awarded $10 Million in IDOT Grants

Funding for statewide projects that advance long-range transportation goals Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Sep 30th, that more than $10 million has been awarded as 29 local…

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Pritzker Administration Invests $6 Million in Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Capital Grant Program

New grant program supports independently owned meat and poultry companies in support of job retention & creation, increased production, and a strengthened supply chain; Grants cover up to 20 percent of capital costs to build or expand plants…

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Governor Pritzker Instructs Revenue Department to Temporarily Suspend Fuel Tax for Commercial Vehicles Assisting with Hurricane Relief Efforts in Florida

Chicago – Governor JB Pritzker has instructed the Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) to temporarily suspend the international fuel tax agreement (IFTA) licensing requirements for 30 days, to allow those assisting with Florida’s…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Approval of Vehicle Infrastructure Plan

Charging stations to facilitate goal of 1 million electric vehicles on roads by 2030 CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Transportation on Sep 29th, announced that the Federal Highway Administration has approved its plan to build a…

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Old State Capitol in Springfield listed to National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network of Freedom

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ Old State Capitol in Springfield has been accepted to the National Park Service’s National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, officials announced on Sep 29, 2022. The site, which is operated by the…

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Governor Pritzker Appoints Nora Daley to Serve as Chair of the Illinois Arts Council

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced Nora Daley as the new Chair of the Illinois Arts Council. She replaces interim chair Rhoda Pierce, who will remain on the board and continue to serve as Vice Chair. “I’m delighted to…

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Illinois EPA Announces Notice of Funding Opportunity for Public Light-Duty Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure

SPRINGFIELD —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim today announced a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the purchase and installation of new Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) light-duty electric…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Significant Payment Toward Unemployment Insurance Loan

Contribution Set to Reduce Remaining Balance by 25% CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) will be making a significant payment of $450 million toward the remaining $1.8 billion borrowed…

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Pritzker Adminstration Secures $13.3 Million In New Funding Tosupport Conservation Planning

SPRINGFIELD, IL - The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced on Sep 26th, the approval of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS) Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy (NLRS) and Conservation Planning Assistance…

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Governor Pritzker, Stakeholders, Unveil Design for Discovery Partners Institute at The 78

Renderings available for download here; Leaders also announce apprenticeship partnership with Interapt and CVS Health, to prepare Chicagoans for lucrative jobs CHICAGO — As part of his focus on expanding Illinois’ innovation economy,…

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Governor Pritzker Proclaims September 23 – October 2 Illinois Electric Vehicle Week

In recognition of Illinois EV Week, state launches EV.Illinois.gov – a one-stop-shop highlighting Illinois’ growing EV economy CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Sep 23rd,…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Commitment of $2.6 Billion in Soybean and Corn Purchases by Taiwanese Government

The agreement is the second multi-billion-dollar agricultural deal since 2019 Chicago - Governor Pritzker on Sep 23rd, announced a letter of intent alongside Taiwanese leaders and dignitaries for the sale of approximately $2 billion of Illinois…

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Statement from Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement in response to misconduct allegations against two legislators. “Integrity is essential to public service, and corruption for personal gain and abuse in private or public…

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Governor Pritzker Appoints Dr. Steven Isoye to Serve as Chair of the Illinois State Board of Education

Appointment comes following a decorated career of service in the classroom and in administration CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Dr. Steven Isoye, an accomplished former educator and superintendent to chair the Illinois State…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Statement of Support for Puerto Rico

Governor JB Pritzker issued the following statement regarding the devastation from Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico: “We stand in solidarity with our fellow American citizens in Puerto Rico, who are without power and experiencing severe…

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Governor JB Pritzker Proclaims September 19-25, 2022 Rail Safety Week in Illinois

Chicago, IL – Governor JB Pritzker has proclaimed September 19-25, 2022, as Rail Safety Week in Illinois. In recognition, the Illinois Commerce Commission in conjunction with Operation Lifesaver will be sharing rail safety facts, tips, and…

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Illinois State Police Welcomes New Troopers With Cadet Class 135 Graduation

ISP Rebuilds with 326 New Troopers Added Since 2019 SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) commissioned 21 new troopers on Sep 16th, from Cadet Class 135 at a graduation ceremony at the Illinois State Police Academy in Springfield.…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Formation of Midwest Hydrogen Coalition

Agreement will create good-paying jobs, improve public health conditions, and provide a pathway to decarbonization of transportation, manufacturing, and agriculture industries CHICAGO -- Illinois joined six other Midwestern states in announcing…

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Illinois Department on Aging Marks Falls Prevention Awareness Week

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Partnering with the National Council on Aging, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is empowering older adults to age well and stay falls free during Falls Prevention Awareness Week from Sept. 18-24, 2022. …

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Governor Pritzker Announces Seven Appointments to Boards and Commissions, Authorities

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS CRIMINAL JUSTICE INFORMATION AUTHORITY Candice Adams will serve as a Member on the Illinois…

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Statewide Payroll Jobs Up, Slight Increase to Statewide Employment Rate in August

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Sep 15th, that the unemployment rate rose +0.1 percentage point to 4.5 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +4,100 in August, based on preliminary data…

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State of Illinois Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

State celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month September 15-October 15 and hosts events to celebrate and support Latino business owners Chicago – The State of Illinois and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is…

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Governor Pritzker Adjusts COVID-19 Requirements to Address Current Needs

Testing Requirements Eased for Certain School and Childcare Staff with New Executive Order Chicago — As part of his continuing plan to carefully unwind the state’s COVID-19 executive orders, Governor Pritzker on Sep 15th, updated…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Disaster Proclamation to Unlock Resources to Assist Asylum Seekers

At request of local partners, Gov. activates 75 members of the Illinois National Guard to provide logistics support CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on Sep 14th, issued an emergency disaster proclamation and activated approximately 75…

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Pritzker Administration to Distribute $371 Million in COVID-19 Relief Funds to Illinois Small Local Governments

State to distribute second round of federal coronavirus recovery funding to more than 1,200 Illinois cities, towns, and villages SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO)…

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OSFM Encourages College Students to Practice and Follow Fire Safety Plans

Since 2000, 7 students have died in college-related fires in Illinois Springfield, Ill - September is Campus Fire Safety Month and Illinois is among numerous states urging students to create and practice a fire escape plan. Governor JB Pritzker…

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State of Illinois Announces Recipients of $3.5 Million Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery (RISE) Program

Local grants empower 42 Illinois communities and economic development organizations in every region of the state to promote long-term economic recovery CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Illinois Hosts 52nd Annual Midwest US Japan Conference in Chicago

CHICAGO – The State of Illinois is honored to host the 52nd Annual Midwest US Japan (MWJA) Conference, which is jointly held by the Midwest U.S.-Japan and Japan-Midwest U.S. Associations in Chicago. The MWJA Conference brings together…

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Rebuilding DuPage County Major Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois Chicago – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that multiple projects in DuPage…

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Tax Rebate Payments Begin for Millions of Illinoisans

An estimated six million taxpayers across the state set to receive income, property tax rebates CHICAGO - Income and property tax rebates will begin being sent to an estimated six million qualified taxpayers beginning from, September 12. The…

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Illinois EPA Announces Second Notice of Funding Opportunity for Unsewered Communities Construction Grants

$20 Million Available for Construction Grants for Wastewater Collection and/or Treatment Facilities SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA) Director John J. Kim on Sep 12th, announced a new funding…

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Governor Pritzker Announce I-55 Improvements, New Interchange with Illinois 59 in Will County

With $93 million investment, projects will enhance safety, create jobs, and promote economic opportunity JOLIET — Governor JB Pritzker on Sep 9th, joined the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), local officials, and community…

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Governor Pritzker Breaks Ground on Reconstruction of Key Corridor inHarvey, Dixmoor, Riverdale

Wood Street/Ashland Avenue $94 million project modernizes 90-year-old infrastructure HARVEY — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) on Sep 8th, joined local officials and community leaders to break…

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Pritzker Administration Relaunches 'Opening Doors' Homebuyer Program

Down Payment Assistance Program to Address Key Barriers Faced by Historically Underserved Communities CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced the reopening of a homeownership program designed to help working class families and…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Six Appointments to Boards, Commissions and Departments

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointment in his administration ILLINOIS POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD Michelle Gibson will continue to serve as Member of the Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Illinois State Police Metro East Regional Headquarters in East St. Louis

New facility will enhance will increase preventive patrol presence, help solve violent crime, and improve regional safety East St. Louis — Governor JB Pritzker along with state and local leaders on Sep 6th, announced the location of a new…

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Governor Pritzker Announces First REV Illinois Award to Central Illinois EV Supplier

T/CCI to invest over $20 million to manufacture electric compressors and establish EV innovation hub in Decatur DECATUR — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on Sep 6th, awarded the…

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Rebuilding West Lake County: Major Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois CHICAGO – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Sep 6th, that multiple projects in West…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces Six Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Departments

ILLINOIS POLLUTION CONTROL BOARD Michelle Gibson will continue to serve as Member of the Illinois Pollution Control Board. Gibson was first appointed to serve on the Illinois Pollution Control Board in 2021. Previously, she was the Supervisor of…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $300 Million in Funding for Energy Bill Assistance

Families can apply for energy bill support beginning September 1, 2022 SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) are encouraging families in need to apply for $300 million…

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Governor Pritzker Welcomes Immigrants Travelling from Texas to Chicago

Chicago -- Governor Pritzker issued the following statement in regards to news of buses of recent asylum seekers and migrants arriving in Chicago on Wednesday evening: “Illinois welcomes refugees, asylum seekers and immigrants and we are…

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Temporary Help Needed For Snow-And-Ice Removal

IDOT seeking qualified individuals to help keep public safe this winter SPRINGFIELD — The Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking qualified individuals to step forward and apply for seasonal positions to help with snow-and-ice…

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IDPH Urges All Who Are Eligible to Get Up to Date With Newly Approved Bivalent Booster Shots

CHICAGO - With 90 counties in the state at an elevated level for COVID-19, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging all who are eligible to take advantage of the new bivalent booster shots that have been authorized by the CDC. IDPH…

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Pritzker Administration Launches State-Wide Employment and Retention Strategy

Initiatives will Combat Critical Staffing Shortages Governor Pritzker on Aug 31st, announced new measures as part of the ongoing efforts to address staffing shortages in the State of Illinois’ agencies that provide essential health and…

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Governor Pritzker Announces up to $100 Million in Grants to Advance Anti-Violence Funding in Greater Illinois

Chicago — On Aug 30th, Governor JB Pritzker announced opportunities for organizations to apply for an additional $100 million in grants to fund gun violence prevention programs in municipalities across Illinois. This funding, part of the…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Proactive Steps Taken to Increase Gas Supply After BP Oil Refinery Fire

Illinois and neighboring states granted emergency federal fuel waiver from EPA; Illinois corn farmers will provide the needed fuel through ethanol production SPRINGFIELD — Governor Pritzker announced on Aug 30th, that his administration has…

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Members of Hayes Family to Serve as Grand Marshal for Du Quoin State Fair Parade

Springfield, IL – The Du Quoin State Fair along with Governor JB Pritzker announced on Aug 24th, that members of the Hayes family will serve as the Grand Marshals for the Du Quoin State Fair Twilight Parade. Carole Hayes Hill and Jane Hayes…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on Biden Administration’s Student Loan Debt Plan

Chicago — On Aug 24th, millions of people are receiving news about long-awaited financial relief. With President Joe Biden’s announcement to forgive thousands of dollars in student loan debt for most borrowers, a burden is being eased.…

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New Student Loan Repayment Program Launches For Community Behavioral Health Care Professionals

Illinois Student Assistance Commission Partners with Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health, to Provide Loan Repayment Assistance to Eligible Borrowers CHICAGO – The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC)…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Sixteen Appointments to Boards, Commissions, and Authorities

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration GUARDIANSHIP AND ADVOCACY COMISSION Thomas Bennett will continue to serve on the Guardianship and…

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White Reminds Motorists to Help Keep Illinois Roads Safe and Cleanthis Summer and Fall

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is reminding motorists to drive safely and keep our roads and highways clean. “Littering on the roadways can pose serious hazards to motorists,” said White. “During warm weather more of us…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $15 Million to Expand Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Following a successful inaugural program launch, Illinois Works opens a second round application to expand geographic reach while further increasing diversity Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and…

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Pritzker Administration Announces All First Round Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses Have Been Issued

185 total licenses issued to 100% social equity applicants in historic expansion of Illinois’ cannabis program CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) today issued…

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Statewide Unemployment Rate Continues to Drop, Payroll Jobs Up in July

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on Aug 18th, that the unemployment rate fell -0.1 percentage point to 4.4 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +31,200 in July, based on preliminary data…

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Governor Pritzker, LG Chem, and ADM Announce New Joint Ventures tobe Located in Decatur

Pending regulatory approval, the joint ventures will manufacture ingredients for a variety of plant-based products, including eco-friendly bioplastics; project expected to create more than 125 new jobs DECATUR — Governor Pritzker along…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on Signing of Inflation Reduction Act

Springfield — On Aug 16th, a clear path to uplift millions of Americans was realized as President Joe Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. This historic legislation takes major steps to break down barriers to equitable…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly to Expand Choices in Care for Illinois Seniors

Services for qualifying adults 55+ include holistic care planning, long term supports, therapies, medications, mental health care, and hospital care Springfield — Governor JB Pritzker along with the Department of Healthcare and Family…

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Governor Pritzker Announces an Invitation for Bid Issued for Historic Chicago Damen Silos Location

Sale expected to be Economic Generator for Chicago Communities CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) on Aug 15th, announced the issuance of an Invitation for Bid (IFB) for the sale of…

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Governor Pritzker Awards $106 Million in Grants through Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets Capital Program

Grants for 50 communities across Illinois represents the largest-ever Rebuild Illinois investment focused on community revitalization ALTON — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on…

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Governor Pritzker Announces New Southwestern Illinois Justice & Workforce Development Campus

Belleville -- Governor Pritzker joined local legislators and stakeholders on Aug 15th, to announce a new law enforcement-focused campus in Belleville in partnership with the city of Belleville, Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC), the Illinois…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Funding Opportunity to Improve Housing Accessibility and Stability for Vulnerable Households

Chicago – The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is pleased to share that up to $60 million in state and federal resources is available to finance the creation or preservation of permanent supportive housing across the state. Under…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $34.6 Billion Investment in Transportation Over Six Years

New program creates economic opportunity and jobs, promotes quality of life, and improves safety on transportation systems throughout Illinois SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) on Aug…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Disaster Proclamation to Assist in Recovery Efforts Following Interco Fire

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation for Madison and St. Clair counties to assist in recovery efforts following Wednesday’s fire at the Interco recycling facility. A disaster proclamation grants the State of…

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Pritzker Administration Issues Third Wave of Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

Pritzker Administration Issues Third Wave of Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) on Aug 12th, issued five additional…

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Pritzker Administration Approaching $1 Billion in Capital Investments for 24/7 State Facilities through Rebuild Illinois

Funding supports the construction, expansion, and renovation of state 24/7 facilities Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker and the Capital Development Board (CDB) have announced nearly $1 billion in investments are planned or underway for…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Four Appointments to Boards and Commissions

ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Anthony Byrd will serve as a Trustee of the Illinois State University Board of Trustees.* Byrd serves as a Special Offender Specialist in the U.S. Pretrial Service Office and is an Adjunct Criminal…

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Disaster Flood Relief Provided to Almost 500 at the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) Serving St. Clair and Washington Counties

EAST ST. LOUIS – This weekend, the Multi-Agency Resource Center (MARC) located at the East St. Louis High School served almost 500 families in the wake of the dangerous flooding that occurred in St. Clair County and Washington County. …

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Federal Court Orders Shakman Decree to be Vacated, Citing Gov. Pritzker’s ‘Extraordinary’ and ‘Durable’ Reforms

CHICAGO — The U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals on Aug 5th, ordered the lower court to vacate the 1972 Shakman Consent Decree, citing Governor Pritzker’s significant progress “instituting and supporting several remedial…

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Governor Pritzker Kicks Off Back To School Tax Holiday August 5 – 14, 2022

Tax holiday is estimated to save Illinois families $50 million CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker joined lawmakers and stakeholders to encourage Illinois families to take advantage of the State’s Back to School tax holiday, Aug. 5 through…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Medicaid Reimbursement Increases and Expanded Title X Funds for Reproductive Health Care Providers

CHICAGO – On Aug 4th, Governor Pritzker announced an increase in Medicaid reimbursement rates for abortion services and a new expansion of Title X funding through the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) for family planning and…

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IDFPR, Illinois Attorney General Warn of New Scam Targeting Banking Consumers

Chicago – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul on Aug 4th, issued a warning regarding a new scam that looks to use fake bank websites to target consumers’…

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Critical Illinois Workforce Programs Receive $33 Million in Highly-Competitive American Rescue Plan Good Jobs Challenge Grants

American Rescue Plan Good Jobs Challenge funding will support innovative workforce programs in Chicago and East Peoria CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Commerce on Aug 3rd, announced that the Department’s Economic Development…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $21 Million in Funding for Infrastructure Projects in Cahokia Heights

$9.9 million grant for wastewater improvements will increase collection efficiency, preventing flood water from entering the sewer collection system SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker along with local officials, stakeholders, and the…

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Governor Pritzker and Tyson Foods, Inc. Break Ground on Caseyville Expansion

Tyson to invest $180 million and create 250 new jobs at expanded Caseyville facility CASEYVILLE — Governor JB Pritzker joined Tyson Foods, Inc., as well as state and local officials, to announce a new expansion of Tyson’s Caseyville…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Disaster Proclamation for St. Clair and Washington Counties Due to Severe Weather and Flooding

Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) have approved an Illinois Disaster Proclamation for the severe weather and flooding that affected St. Clair County and Washington County on July 25 and July…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $17.5 Million in Funding to Renovate Rend Lake Resort in Southern Illinois

Renovations to the Rend Lake Resort conference center, restaurant, cabins, pool, and boatel will begin this summer SOUTHERN ILLINOIS — Governor JB Pritzker announced today a long-awaited renovation of the popular Rend Lake Resort in Southern…

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Illinois, Multi-State Partnership Announce Lake Michigan EV Circuit

States will collaborate to enable electric vehicle travel along 1,100-mile shoreline SPRINGFIELD –The state of Illinois and three other Midwest states are collaborating to build America’s next iconic road trip route, specifically for…

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IEMA Encourages People To Be Aware, Be Prepared As Heavy Rain And Flash Flooding Continue Statewide

SPRINGFIELD – Several significant storms will impact Illinois this week, bringing a potential for flash flooding across the state. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) encourages people to keep updated with local forecasts and be…

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Illinois Recognizes Child Support Awareness Month With Resource Dayevent For Families, Charitable Fundraiser

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois is marking Child Support Awareness Month this August with a Family Resource Day to raise attention and help connect Illinois families to the range of child support services available to them. The state’s Child…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Monkeypox Virus Public Health Emergency Declaration to Coordinate Statewide Response

Chicago—Governor Pritzker issued a proclamation on Aug 1st, declaring the monkeypox virus a public health emergency and declaring the state of Illinois a disaster area regarding the disease. The declaration, which applies to the entire state,…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Four Appointments to Boards

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration: TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM BOARD OF TRUSTEES Matthew Hunt will continue to serve as…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces SBA Disaster Declaration Approval for Highland Park Shooting

HIGHLAND PARK - Governor JB Pritzker announced today that the State's request for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster declaration has been granted for several counties in Northeast Illinois that were affected by the shooting at the…

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Governor Pritzker Announces SBA Disaster Declaration Approval for Highland Park Shooting

HIGHLAND PARK – Governor JB Pritzker announced on July 29th, that the State’s request for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster declaration has been granted for several counties in Northeast Illinois that were affected by…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $15 Million in Additional Funding to Support Local Festivals and Tourism Across the State

Funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the grants will support localities and tourism entities hardest-hit by the pandemic; State also announces full list of projects from first round of funding WHEATON — Governor JB Pritzker and…

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Governor Pritzker and Attorney General Raul Announce Next Steps inCombatting Opioid Epidemic

CHICAGO -- Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul on July 29th, announced the next steps in the historic national $26 billion opioid settlement agreement with the nation’s three major pharmaceutical distributors –…

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $15 Million in Additional Funding to Support Local Festivals and Tourism Across the State

WHEATON — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today announced $15 million in funding to support tourism sector across Illinois, through the second round of the Tourism Attraction and…

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IDOC Encourages Applications to the Northwestern Prison Education Program (NPEP) for the 2022-2023 Academic Year

NPEP Will Consider Applicants from IDOC Facilities Across the State (Springfield, IL) – The Northwestern Prison Education Program (NPEP) is now accepting applications for a new cohort of students for the 2022-2023 academic year. IDOC…

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Pritzker Administration Issues Second Wave of Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) today issued 28 additional Conditional Adult Use Dispensing Organization Licenses to applicants selected in three lotteries for 185…

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Governor Pritzker and Attorney General Raoul Announce Next Steps in Combatting Opioid Epidemic

CHICAGO—Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul today announced the next steps in the historic national $26 billion opioid settlement agreement with the nation's three major pharmaceutical distributors - Cardinal,…

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Public Health Officials Announce 35,371 New Cases of Coronavirus Disease Over the Past Week

CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 35,371 new confirmed and probable cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Illinois, including 48 deaths since July 22, 2022. According to the CDC, 66 counties are now…

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Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program application Period to Open, More Options for Disadvantaged Communities

Sept. 30 deadline to submit proposals for local quality-of-life projects Springfield – The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) announced today that the application period for the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP)…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Sale of the James R. Thompson Center (JRTC), Google to Occupy Renovated Building

Google to Establish Presence in Central Loop in Transformative Deal CHICAGO – Completing a sale that has eluded State government for decades, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) announced…

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IEMA Recognizes ADA Anniversary

SPRINGFIELD – July 26 marks the 32nd anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Act in 1990 and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is encouraging all local public safety and emergency management agencies…

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Governor Pritzker Launches Illinois Cares for Kids Statewide Enrollment Campaign 'I Got Love / ¡Siento Amor!'

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced the launch of "I Got Love / ¡Siento Amor!", the statewide enrollment campaign for childcare and early education services, featuring Illinois artists, musicians, and production partners. Since…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Two Appointments to Boards and Authorities

CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY BOARD Neema Jha will serve as a Member of the Chicago Transit Authority Board.* Jah is a Principal, Customer Practice Manager at Amazon Web Services as where she oversees a portfolio of enterprise customers. She…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Record-Breaking $445 Million in FY 2022 Adult-Use Cannabis Tax Revenue

50% Increase in Total Tax Reported from Adult-Use Cannabis as Sales Exceed $1.5 Billion CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced on July 25th, that the State of Illinois has seen a 50% increase in total tax reported from adult-use…

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Jesse White Extending Driver’s License and ID Card Expiration Dates until December 1, 2022

Encourages the public to conduct business online at ilsos.gov Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that expiration dates for driver’s licenses, ID cards and learner’s permits are being extended until December 1, 2022.…

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Governor Pritzker Calls on Federal Government to Increase Monkeypox Virus Vaccination Efforts

State is Providing 4,600 Additional Vaccine Doses to City of Chicago as Cases Rise in Region Chicago -- Governor Pritzker called on Secretary Xavier Becerra, head of the US Department of Health and Human Services, to take more aggressive action…

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Statewide Unemployment Rate Reaches Lowest Point Since Pandemic’s Start, Payroll Jobs Up in June

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on July 21st, that the unemployment rate fell -0.1 percentage point to 4.5 percent, the lowest the rate has been since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic in March…

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Expressway Shootings Down Amid Increased Illinois State Police Enforcement Details

Expressway Shootings Down 36%, Injury Shootings Down 46%, Homicides Down 90% Chicago – At the midway mark for 2022, the Illinois State Police (ISP) is reporting the total number of Chicago area expressway shootings is down 36% compared to…

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Pritzker Administration Launches Multi-Agency Effort to Bring Additional State Support to Highland Park and Surrounding Areas

Highland Park, IL – The Pritzker administration is bringing State agencies and contractors together to supplement local efforts to provide mental health and social service supports to residents affected by the July 4 tragedy in Highland Park.…

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Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton Makes History as the First Black Woman to Chair the National Lieutenant Governors Association

“Being lieutenant governor of Illinois means shaping policy so that communities who have long been forgotten or ignored know they are part of our democracy.” — Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton Chicago – As a legacy is…

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Pritzker Administration Issues First Wave of Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

Pritzker Administration Issues First Wave of Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) on July 22nd, issued 149 Conditional…

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Illinois State Police File Emergency Rule Change to Broaden the Use of Clear and Present Danger Reports in FOID Card Applications

Springfield—The Illinois State Police (ISP), under the direction of Governor Pritzker, submitted an emergency rule change to the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office implementing broader use of clear and present danger reports that can…

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Governolr Pritzker Tests Positive For COVID-19

Chicago — After being notified of several close contacts testing positive for COVID-19, Gov. Pritzker received a positive test result during his routine COVID testing regimen. The Governor is experiencing mild symptoms and has been prescribed…

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Pritzker Administration Awards $12 Million in Rebuild Illinois Funds for Affordable Housing Preservation

Limited Rehabilitation Preservation Program Provides Capital Funds to Renovate Aging Affordable Housing Stock Across Illinois Chicago – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Board announced on July…

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Public Health Officials Announce 33,066 New Cases of Coronavirus Disease Over the Past Week

CDC Reports 94 Illinois Counties at High or Medium Community Level; Public Health Officials Urge Caution & Masking Indoors in Areas with Elevated Risk Chicago – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today reported 33,066 new…

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Pritzker Administration Announces 988 Suicide Prevention Lifelineto Strengthen Mental Health Support Across Illinois

American Rescue Plan Funding Will Support State Efforts to Transform Suicide and Mental Health Crisis Care in Illinois CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced on July 15th, that the Illinois Department of Human Services’ (IDHS)…

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Illinois Expands Health Care Coverage for Immigrant Adults to Include Those Aged 42 and Up

Springfield – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services is expanding the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program to now provide health care coverage to undocumented immigrant adults and certain legal permanent residents…

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Illinois Continues Building Up 'Rainy Day' Fund with $100 Million Deposit

Springfield, IL -- With the latest $100 million deposit into the Budget Stabilization Fund, the state’s "Rainy Day" Fund, Illinois now has more than $850 million in the bank to weather potential economic turbulence. Governor Pritzker and the…

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The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal Reminds Everyone toPractice Water Safety in and Around Pools

69% of young children who drown were not expected to be in or near water Springfield, Ill - As the summer heat continues in Illinois, pools are a favorite destination for many to cool off. It’s important to follow all posted rules and pay…

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Iowa Workforce Development Awards Over $3.6 Million to Grow and Expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs Across Iowa

Des Moines – Iowa Workforce Development announced it has awarded over $3.6 million in funding designated to create or expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs across Iowa. Benefiting both employers and high schools, Registered Apprenticeship…

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Stratton Lock and Dam Improvements Ensure Fox River Chain O’ Lakes Boaters Experience Shorter Wait Times in Lock

$22M improvement project benefits thousands of recreational boaters annually McHENRY – Boat and jet ski operators will experience shorter wait times and a safer experience overall when they pass through the lock at Stratton Lock and Dam…

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ICC Releases Draft Renewable Energy Access Plan for Stakeholder Review and Comment

Springfield, IL – On Wednesday, the Staff of the Illinois Commerce Commission released a first DRAFT of the statutorily required Renewable Energy Access Plan (REAP), opening a 120-day public review and comment period. The REAP is a…

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Governor Pritzker Continues Effort to Ramp Down COVID-19 Requirements with Updated Executive Order

Chicago -- As part of his continuing plan to carefully unwind the state’s COVID-19 executive orders, Governor Pritzker on July 13th, updating vaccine and testing requirements in some industries. The updated executive order amends testing…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $60 Million Competitive Grant Program for Early Childhood Construction in Illinois

Funding will support the construction, expansion, and renovation of facilities that support early student learning Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker has announced $60 million in capital grant opportunities for Illinois Early Childhood…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Ten Appointments to Boards and Commissions and Senior Executive Positions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ILLINOIS ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY Megha Lakhchaura will serve as the Electric Vehicle…

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Governor Pritzker Appoints Health Policy Expert Dr. Sameer Vohra to Lead Illinois Department of Public Health

Dr. Vohra, a pediatrician dedicated to improving health outcomes in Central and Southern Illinois, named as permanent replacement for Dr. Ngozi Ezike SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Dr. Sameer Vohra, a distinguished…

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Illinois DCFS Awards College Scholarships to 72 Current and Former Youth in Care

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services on July 12th, awarded scholarships to 72 college-bound current and former youth in care at a lunch and ceremony in their honor at the Wyndham Springfield City Centre. …

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Calumet City Disaster Declaration for Deadly Fire

Calumet City – On July 7th, Governor JB Pritzker announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved a disaster declaration for the Park of River Oaks Condominiums in Calumet City which was devastated by a fire on May 30.…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on the Shooting in Highland Park

Chicago, IL -- The pain that we are feeling on July 5th, is not normal and never should be. My family and I are praying for the Highland Park community and all who attended the 4th of July parade on July 5th, to celebrate our country only to have…

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Governor Pritzker Issues Disaster Proclamation to Assist in Recovery Efforts Following Highland Park Mass Shooting

Chicago – On July 5th, Governor JB Pritzker issued a disaster proclamation for Lake County to assist in recovery efforts following Monday’s mass shooting in Highland Park. A disaster proclamation grants the State of Illinois the ability…

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Governor Pritzker’s Statement on Shooting in Highland Park

On July 5th, I ask all Illinoisans to pray for the families who have been devastated by the evil unleashed this morning in Highland Park, for those who have lost loved ones and for those who have been injured. I also ask that we all pray for our…

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Governor Pritzker Addresses on July 5th Morning’s Mass Shooting in Highland Park

Monday, July 4th, 2022 *Remarks As Prepared For Delivery* Video of the Governor’s remarks will be available for download here. Good afternoon. I want to begin by honoring the heroic actions of law enforcement who ran toward…

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Joint Statement From Governor Pritzker, Senate President Harmon, and House Speaker Welch on Special Legislative Session to Protect Reproductive Rights

As we build on Illinois’ nation-leading abortion protections and access, it is essential to bring lawmakers and advocates into the room to continue to work together. In the coming weeks, as the ripples of the decision to overturn Roe are felt…

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Statement From IDVA Director Terry Prince

Governor JB Pritzker ordered flags across Illinois to fly at half-staff to honor one of our own. Corporal Nathan Carlson, a Marine hero and fellow Illinoisan, returned home after making the ultimate sacrifice of military service when he and four…

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Governor Pritzker Hails Tremendous Fiscal Progress as Illinois Enters FY23

SPRINGFIELD – As the Comptroller reports Illinois’ GRF payment cycle hit zero days for the first time in decades, Governor Pritzker provided the following statement at the end of the state’s Fiscal Year 2022: “A…

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Statement From IDVA Director Terry Prince

On June 30, 2022, Governor JB Pritzker requested that all flags be flown at half-staff to honor an American hero, Hershel “Woody” Williams, the nation’s last remaining World War II Medal of Honor recipient. Woody demonstrated…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Opening of Electric Vehicle Rebate Program for Illinois Residents

Program offers $4,000 rebate for purchase of an electric passenger vehicle or $1,500 rebate for purchase of an electric motorcycle SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Director John J. Kim on July 1st, announced the…

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Illinois Family Relief Plan to Begin July 1, 2022

Residents will save on gas, groceries, property taxes and school supplies with tax holidays Nearly $2 billion in relief provided to residents through tax cuts and direct payments Comptroller plans to roll out tax rebates in September …

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Urgent Notice - Notice to Proceed Memo

Notice to Proceed Memo The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag Display Act are to fly the flags at half-staff in honor of: Hershel…

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Pritzker Administration Announces $58.1 Million Planned Investment in Construction Projects at the Historic Illinois State Fairgrounds

The multi-million dollar investment will address years of deferred maintenance Springfield, IL – Excavators, bulldozers, and graters have converged on the Illinois State Fairgrounds as the Illinois Department of Agriculture kicks off a…

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Governor Pritzker Signs CROWN Act Into Law Protecting Against Hair Discrimination

Act amends Illinois Human Rights Act to include hair-based discrimination under anti-racism protections Chicago—Governor Pritzker signed the CROWN Act into law today, codifying protections for Illinoisans discriminated against due to…

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State Fire Marshal Matt Perez Announces Retirement

Perez served over 7 years as Illinois State Fire Marshal and over 37 years in public safety SPRINGFIELD -- Illinois State Fire Marshal Matt Perez has announced plans to retire at the end of June, 2022. Perez has served over 7 years as Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Bolstering Access to Healthy Food in Schools

New law enables school districts to further partnerships with food providers that prioritize the health of students CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker on June 29th, signed legislation to increase access to healthy food options in schools across…

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Illinois Receives Nearly $200 Million in Federal Funding for Enhancements to the Veterans' Home at Quincy

Illinois is the recipient of a final grant of $194,762,750 from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs for enhancements to the Illinois Veterans’ Home at Quincy. The allocation will be used for campus reconstruction and replacement…

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State and Local Economic Development Organizations to Attract Global Investment to Illinois at 2022 SelectUSA Summit

SPRINGFIELD – The State of Illinois on June 27th, announced its delegation for the 2022 SelectUSA Investment Summit, led by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Intersect Illinois and nine economic development…

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Illinois EPA Announces More than $500,000 in Unsewered Communities Planning Grant Awards

Planning grants provide funding for communities to develop plans addressing wastewater collection and treatment SPRINGFIELD —Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Director John Kim on June 27th, announced grant awards totaling…

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Governor Pritzker to Call Special Session for Reproductive Health Rights, with Support from Speaker Welch and President Harmon

Governor Issues Statement on Urgency of Standing Up for Reproductive Rights In Illinois, we trust women. Despite the action of the Supreme Court on June 24th, overturning Roe v. Wade, the right to safe, accessible reproductive health care is in…

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Governor Pritzker’s Remarks Following the Supreme Court’s Decision to Overturn Roe v. Wade

Friday, June 24th, 2022: *Remarks As Prepared For Delivery* Video of the Governor’s remarks will be available for download here. We knew this day was coming. The extremists on the Supreme Court have made an abhorrent decision…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Re-Enforcing Value of Illinois High School Diploma

Chicago, IL -- On June 24th, Governor JB Pritzker signed SB3792 into law, amending the code of multiple acts and agencies to replace references to high school equivalency certificates to State of Illinois High School Diplomas. This change recognizes…

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Lt. Governor Stratton’s Statement on the Supreme Court’s Overturning of Roe V. Wade

CHICAGO — I am angry but unafraid. Today, and every day, I will continue fighting for a woman’s right to bodily autonomy. I am disappointed but determined. Although we have known for weeks that our right to bodily autonomy can be a…

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ICJIA Awards $45 Million in Restore, Reinvest, and Renew (R3) Program Grants

Funds will support local organizations operating on smaller budgets in communities heavily affected by violence, criminal justice system overuse, and economic deprivation CHICAGO — Using revenue from adult-use, recreational cannabis…

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Governor Pritzker Expands State License Plate Options to Include Chicago Sky, Red Stars and Fire

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker signed HB4434 into law on June 23rd, expanding the options of professional sports team license plates Illinoisans can choose from at the Secretary of State. The change, which adds the Chicago Fire, the Chicago…

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$550,000 Appropriation Provides FFA Dues for Ag Education Students

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) announced on June 21st, that Future Farmers of America (FFA) dues for every student taking agriculture education classes across the state will be covered starting this fall. The…

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Illinois Department of Revenue Moving its Chicago Office Out of the James R. Thompson Building

New Office to be Relocated to 555 W. Monroe CHICAGO - The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) will officially move its Chicago office out of the James R. Thompson Center (JRTC) on Friday, June 24. It will reopen for business on Monday, June 27…

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Pritzker Administration Provides Nearly $75 Million for Affordable Housing Development

COVID-19 Affordable Housing Grant Program Will Support the Creation of More Than 1,000 Units for Families, Seniors, and Individuals with Disabilities CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA)…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Eleven Appointments to Boards and Commissions

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration AMUSEMENT RIDE AND ATTRACTION SAFETY BOARD Andrew Purvin will serve as a Member of the Amusement…

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Illinois Shatters Record for Film Revenues with $630 Million inEconomic Impact in 2021

Film production revenue surpasses pre-pandemic levels in 2019 - signaling a strong recovery and positive economic impact for communities CHICAGO - Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot on June 16th, announced that projected film…

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Rebuilding Springfield: Major Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois Springfield – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 16th, that multiple projects…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Bills Expanding Protection for Survivors of Sexual Assault

Chicago —On June 16th, Governor JB Pritzker signed two bills aimed at making medical and legal care for victims of sexual assault broader and more accessible. HB5441 amends Illinois Criminal Code to specify that someone is unable to give…

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Community Organizations, IDHS and CPS Unite to Provide Summer Jobs and Support to Young People in Chicago

Organizations focus on engaging vulnerable youth to increase safety CHICAGO — Illinois Department of Human Services Assistant Secretary of Firearm Violence Prevention Chris Patterson and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Chief of Safety and…

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Statewide Unemployment Rate Stable, Payroll Jobs Up in May

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on June 16th, that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.6 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +12,800 in May, based on preliminary data provided by the…

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Rebuilding Rockford: Major Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois ROCKFORD – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 16th, that multiple projects in…

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GovernorPritzker Designates the Official Snake of the State of Illinois

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on June 16th, designated the eastern milksnake as the official snake of the State of Illinois. House Bill 4821 began as an initiative led by Gentry Heiple, a 7th grader at Carterville Junior High School.…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Bill Guaranteeing Insurance Coverage for Glucose Monitors

Chicago -- On June 15th, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation into law requiring insurance and managed health plans provide coverage for continuous glucose monitors, an essential tool for diabetes care. SB2969 expands safe and affordable…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Modernize Infrastructure Improvement Process

Design-build project delivery method bolsters Gov. Pritzker’s historic capital program, improving infrastructure throughout Illinois CHICAGO – Gov. JB Pritzker today signed into law legislation allowing for the implementation of…

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Governor Pritzker Appoints Anthony Pascente as New Director of the Illinois Department of Central Management Services

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on June 13th, announced that Anthony Pascente will succeed Janel L. Forde as the Director of the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS). Anthony currently serves as CMS chief of staff. …

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Governor Pritzker Signs Ban on Latex Gloves in Healthcare, Food Service Settings

Chicago -- Governor JB Pritzker signed HB209 into law on June 14th, restricting the use of latex gloves in food preparation and medical services and protecting thousands of Illinoisans from adverse allergic reactions. Latex allergies can range from…

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Rebuilding Southern Illinois: Interstate Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois Carbondale – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 13th, that major projects to…

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Governor Pritzker and Ferrero Announce First-Ever U.S. Kinder Bueno Production Facility in Bloomington

Ferrero to invest $214.4 million and create 200 new jobs at expanded Bloomington facility Bloomington —Governor JB Pritzker joined Ferrero North America, as well as state and local officials, to announce a new expansion of Ferrero’s…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Nation-Leading Investments in Early Childhood

Over $175 million in funding to support child care providers & families CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) on June 13th, announced new investments that strengthen and grow…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Bills Expanding Access to HIV andAIDS-Related Care and Prevention

Bills make PrEP and PEP more accessible, battle disparities in care for African Americans Chicago—Governor JB Pritzker signed HB4430 and HB5549 into law on June 10th, removing barriers to access for HIV and AIDS care and prevention.…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Next Steps for Applicants Selected for 185 Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

Chicago – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced the next steps to issue 185 Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensing Organization Licenses to applicants selected in three lotteries in 2021. This…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Increasing Mental Health Workforce in Illinois

Chicago — Governor Pritzker on June 10th, signed Senate Bill 3617, omnibus legislation aimed at addressing the shortage of mental health professionals in Illinois and increasing access to high-quality mental health services across the State.…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Expanding Access to Prostate Cancer Screenings

New law builds on the administration’s record investments in equity focused healthcare services Chicago – In recognition of National Men’s Health Month, Governor JB Pritzker on June 10th, signed legislation requiring health…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action - June 10, 2022

On June 10, 2022, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 1567 Description: Expands the duties of the Governor’s Office of New Americans. Action: Signed Effective: January 1, 2023 Bill Number: HB…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Fight Food Insecurity and Increase Availability of Healthy Options

New program creates opportunities for grocery stores to receive financial assistance to expand operations Chicago – Governor JB Pritzker on June 9th, announced the establishment of the Healthy Foods Access Program, furthering the…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Recipients Across Illinois

45 projects located in non-metropolitan communities to receive $23.5 million in infrastructure and housing rehabilitation grants SPRINGFIELD - The Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on June 9th, announced the…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Family Bereavement Leave Act Into Law

SB3120 requires paid leave for pregnancy loss or other situations impacting fertility, adoption, or pregnancy Chicago -- Governor JB Pritzker on June 9th, signed the Family Bereavement Act, an amendment to the Child Bereavement Leave Act that…

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Downstate Transit Agencies Eligible for New Round of Rebuild Illinois Grants

Funding opportunity to grow, improve local transportation options SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 9th, that a third and final round of proposals are being accepted through July 29 from downstate…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Aimed at Curbing Pollution and Reducing Harmful Emissions

New bill prohibits the incineration of PFAS substances at commercial waste incinerators Chicago — Governor Pritzker on June 8th, signed HB 4818, an amendment to the Environmental Protection Act prohibiting the disposal by incineration of…

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Department on Aging Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Ahead of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) are highlighting the warning signs of adult abuse and how to put a stop to it in Illinois. “Every single…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand Access to Higher Education

Bills aimed at increasing education equity across Illinois CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on June 7th, signed legislation designed to increase access to Illinois’ higher education system, close equity gaps, and improve student…

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Rebuilding Decatur: Major Projects Highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure throughout Illinois Decatur, IL -– Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 6th, that multiple projects…

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Rebuilding Kankakee: Major projects highlight Year Four of Rebuild Illinois

Governor Pritzker’s historic capital program improving infrastructure in eastern Illinois Kankakee – Entering Year Four of Rebuild Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on June 6th, that multiple projects in…

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Governor Pritzker Designates the Official Rock of the State of Illinois

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker June 6th, joined legislators, students, and teachers at the Morton Arboretum to designate Dolostone as the official rock of the State of Illinois. House Bill 4261 began as an initiative led by a group of…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $20 Million Investment in Humboldt Park Health

CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker joined Humboldt Park Health leaders to announce $20 million in funding for the safety-net hospital on the west side of Chicago, a product of the Governor’s historic Rebuild Illinois infrastructure plan. $19…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Further Combat National Opioid Crisis

Initiatives follow record investments in substance abuse treatment services Chicago – In an effort to further the state’s commitment to addressing the ongoing opioid crisis, Governor JB Pritzker signed several pieces of legislation…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand Use of Expressway Cameras for Law Enforcement Investigations

New laws build on prior initiatives to reduce carjackings and improve public safety CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker on June 3rd, signed two pieces of legislation that allow for the expanded use of expressway cameras, empowering law…

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Governor Pritzker Announces First-Ever Sold Out Enjoy Illinois 300 NASCAR Cup Series Race

Race expected to generate more than $60 million for Metro East area, attract 83,000 fans Gov. Proclaims June 3 ‘Richard Petty Day’ MADISON — Governor JB Pritzker on June 3rd, announced that the sold-out NASCAR Cup Series race,…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Historic Achievement for Sexual Assault Survivors

All forensic assignments completed within 180-day statutory requirement for first time ever CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker announced on June 3rd, that after decades of extensive sexual assault forensic backlogs, the number of pending sexual…

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Pritzker Administration Announces Recipients of Coal-to-Solar Program as Part of Landmark Climate Initiative

Five Illinois coal plants that are currently closed or in the process of ceasing coal operations will begin operating energy storage facilities in 2025 Chicago - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Thirteen Appointments to Boards and Commissions, Public Administrators and Public Guardians, and Assistant Adjutant General - Air

Building on a strong team of diverse experts in their fields, Governor JB Pritzker announced the following appointments in his administration ENERGY TRANSITION WORKFORCE COMMISSION Sameer Doshi will serve as a Member of the Energy…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Lake Michigan Rescue Equipment Act

Chicago — Governor JB Pritzker signed HB4165 into law on June 2nd, marking the creation of the Lake Michigan Rescue Equipment Act. The act, introduced by Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy (D-Chicago), is a crucial step towards addressing recent drownings…

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City, State Public Health Officials Confirm First Probable Case of Monkeypox Virus in Illinois

Patient is doing well, the probable case poses little risk to general public CHICAGO - The Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), announced on June 2nd, a single presumptive monkeypox case in an…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Landmark Equity-Driven Nursing Home Rate Reform Legislation to Improve Care for Seniors

Nation-leading nursing home reform to hold facility owners accountable by tying new funding to staffing and care improvements CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker on May 31st, signed historic and equity-focused nursing home rate form legislation…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Over $50 Million in Grants for Essential Infrastructure Projects

34 communities across Illinois receiving grants for critical road repairs, bridge replacements, sewer upgrades, and more Chicago — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on May 31st,…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Issues Next Round of Craft Grow Licenses

100% of new licenses issued to Social Equity Applicants; issuance closes current application round SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) on June 1st, awarded 48 Craft Grow licenses, successfully completing the…

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Pritzker Administration Awards $34 Million in Tax Credits for Affordable Housing

Federal Incentive Will Create 1,343 Units for Families, Seniors, and Individuals with Disabilities Chicago – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Board announced on May 27th, conditional awards…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Medicaid Omnibus Legislation that Increases Access and Equity in Illinois’ Health Care System

New measures would provide continuous eligibility for adults enrolled in Medicaid and increase reimbursement rates for prenatal and postpartum health care coverage Chicago — Governor Pritzker signed a Medicaid omnibus (HB4343) on May…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action on May 27, 2022

On May 27th,, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB0107 Description: Requires a record of the purchase of recyclable metal and catalytic converters, prohibits the cash sale of catalytic convertors over the value…

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Pritzker Administration Applauds State Court Ruling to Lift Stayson 185 Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

CHICAGO – The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced the Circuit Court of Cook County has lifted the stays that enjoined 185 Conditional Adult Use Cannabis Dispensing Organization Licenses to applicants…

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Governor Pritzker Highlights Efforts to Reduce Violent Crime Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend

Announces New $18 Million Investment in Chicago Public Schools’ Project: ‘Back to Our Future’ Chicago – Building on the administration’s record $250 million funding for violence prevention through the Reimagine…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Consumer Protection Bills for Health Insurance Coverage

New bills will curb surprise medical billing, enforce medical card transparency, and improve access to health insurance CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker on May 26th, signed HB4703, SB3910, and HB0836 into law to increase protections and access…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand and Protect Children’s Mental Health Care

Bills focus on youth in foster care through targeted task forces Chicago -- Governor JB Pritzker on May 26th, signed two pieces of legislation into law intended to expand and improve access to children’s mental health services, particularly…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand and Protect Children’s Mental Health Care

Bills focus on youth in foster care through targeted task forces Chicago, IL -- Governor JB Pritzker on May 25th, signed two pieces of legislation into law intended to expand and improve access to children’s mental health services,…

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Honoring The Victims Of The Tragedy In Uvalde, Texas

United States and Illinois flags at half-staff immediately until Sunset on Saturday, May 28, 2022 The Department of Central Management Services has received notice from Governor JB Pritzker that all person or entities covered by the Illinois Flag…

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Governor Pritzker Calls on Federal Government to Fund Illinois Based on Population Increase

Updated Census data indicates Illinois has surpassed 13 million residents for the first time in history Chicago -- Governor Pritzker on May 24th, urged President Joe Biden and the federal government to ensure that Illinois receives federal funding…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action on May 20, 2022

On May 20, 2022, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB 722 Description: Provides for an immediate effective date of HB 1175. Action: Signed Effective: Immediately Bill Number: HB 1175 Description: Amends the…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Protecting Illinoisans with Disabilities in Housing, State Government

Legislation prevents discrimination based on source of income and expands accessibility at Illinois State Capitol Chicago-- Governor JB Pritzker signed HB2775 and SB180 into law on May 23rd, expanding protections for Illinoisans with disabilities…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation to Ease Property Tax Burdens on Illinois Residents

Seniors, veterans, and persons with disabilities benefit from a simplified process under the new law CHICAGO –On May 20th, Governor JB Pritzker signed legislation that streamlines property tax relief for seniors, veterans, and persons with…

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Statewide Unemployment Rate Down, Payroll Jobs Up in April 2022

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced on May 19th, that the unemployment rate fell -0.1 percentage point to 4.6 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +9,300 in April, based on preliminary data…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Expanding Protections for Survivorsof Sexual Violence Serving in the Military

CHICAGO — On May 19th, Governor JB Pritzker signed Senate Bill 257, a nation-leading piece of legislation that expands protections for survivors of sexual violence in the military. “For far too long, our servicemembers who’ve…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Illinois Banking Development Districts Act

New program incentivizes new bank branches in underserved communitie CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker signed HB 5194, the Illinois Banking Development Districts Act, into law on Friday. Sponsored by State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) and…

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Governor Pritzker Statement on New U.S. Census Bureau Report Showing Illinois Population Increase

Following a review of 2020 U.S. Census Data, the U.S. Census Bureau announced on May 19th, that Illinois was undercounted by nearly 2%. This means that Illinois’ population grew by nearly 250,000 people and is now above 13 million people for…

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Illinois Department of Agriculture Issues First Pre-Construction Permits to Social Equity Craft Grow Licensees

Licensees are cleared by the Department to begin construction SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) on May 18th, issued the first pre-construction permits to social equity licensees established under the Cannabis…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Supporting Rural Healthcare Expansion, Coordination

The bills offer incentives to providers choosing to practice in rural communities and clear the path for health center mergers Chicago- Governor JB Pritzker on May 17th, signed two bills designed to provide better access to healthcare for…

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Pritzker Administration Takes Action to Support Families Amid Baby Formula Shortage

IDPH Urges Families Not to Hoard Products; IDHS Opens Hotline For Consumers; Safeguards in Place for WIC Families Springfield–The State of Illinois is taking a series of important steps to help families get the safe formula they need in…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $20 Million Investment to Boost Equitable Workforce Recovery

Chicago – Governor JB Pritzker on May 18th, joined the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), local officials, and workforce partners to announce $20 million in investments for workforce training and wrap-around…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Banning ‘Ghost Guns’ Statewide

Unserialized firearms created and sold by individuals were involved in over 20,000 suspected crimes last year nationwide Chicago -- Governor JB Pritzker signed HB4383 into law, banning the sale and possession of so-called ‘ghost…

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Governor Pritzker Declares May 19 Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker has declared Thursday, May 19, as Crossing Guard Appreciation Day in Illinois to honor those who help ensure the safety of students throughout Illinois as they walk and bike to school. “Crossing…

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Governor Pritzker Announces Record-Setting $11.2 Million in Funding to Support Family Planning Services Throughout Illinois

$5.4 million HHS grant will expand access to equitable and affordable services CHICAGO — Governor Pritzker on May 16th, announced that the State of Illinois has received $5.4 in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Aimed at Protecting LGBTQ Older Adults

Legislation honors LGBTQ Elders day on May 16 Chicago - Governor Pritzker signed SB3490, an amendment to the Illinois Act on Aging designating specific protections and services for older LGBTQ adults. This signing took place on National Honor Your…

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Illinois Celebrates World Trade Month and Announces International Business Development Opportunities for Exporters

State announces global business opportunities for exporters and highlights $900,000 in available program funds to support companies interested in starting or expanding sales to foreign markets Chicago – As Illinois celebrates World Trade…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Hospital Assessment Program Expansion

Extends Program through 2026 protecting safety net hospitals and expanding qualifications for aid Chicago—Governor JB Pritzker today signed HB1950, extending and expanding the Hospital Assessment Program through 2026. The legislation…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

On May 16th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: HB2991 Description: Requires DVA to contract for a market research analysis of veterans’ field services, subject to appropriations. Action:…

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Pritzker Administration Awards $4 Million in Grant Funding for Projects Along Route 66

SPRINGFIELD - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) on May 16th, announced $4 million in grant awards for various projects across the state designed to spur tourism, bolster educational…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Addressing Rise in Organized Retail Thefts

INFORM Act builds the state’s previous efforts to expand victim rights protection CHICAGO – Governor Pritzker on May 13th, joined Attorney General Kwame Raoul, lawmakers, advocates, and law enforcement officials to sign legislation…

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Pritzker Administration and Readerlink Announce Company’s New Marion Facility During Illinois Economic Development Week

Readerlink’s new book distribution facility in Marion will create 75 new full-time jobs; Illinois celebrates Economic Development Week from May 9-13 MARION - Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic…

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Public Health Officials Announce 40,026 New Cases of Coronavirus Disease Over the Past Week

CDC is Reporting 23 Illinois Counties are Now Rated at Medium Level; Public Health Officials Stress Importance of Being Updated on Vaccinations and Boosters; Vulnerable People Should Exercise Caution in Indoor Spaces SPRINGFIELD – The…

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Capital Development Board Announces Over $51 Million in Funding to State Agencies in Northern Illinois Made Possible by Governor Pritzker’s Capital Plan

Funding helps state agencies build, improve, and renovate aging facilities NORTHERN ILLINOIS -- The Capital Development Board (CDB) on May 12th, announced over $51 million in investments are moving forward to improve and renovate various state…

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Pritzker Administration Affirms State Coverage of Abortions in Comprehensive Healthcare for Pregnant Women

As a freedom of choice state, HFS provides coverage for reproductive healthcare, including abortion and maternity care SPRINGFIELD – In the second week of Women’s Health Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, the Illinois…

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Governor JB Pritzker Calls on Federal Lawmakers to Protect Women’s Rights with Roe v. Wade Under Threat

Remarks As Prepared For Delivery* Thank you, and good morning. With the Supreme Court’s anti-choice majority poised to further restrict reproductive rights and overturn Roe v. Wade, the nation is on the precipice of eliminating a federal…

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Governor Pritzker and Fire Marshal Perez Honor Fallen Firefighters

Firefighters gather to honor four fallen firefighters during the 29th annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial and Medal of Honor Ceremony Springfield, IL - Governor JB Pritzker and State Fire Marshal Matt Perez joined firefighters to honor and…

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Farmer Mental Health Initiatives Highlighted During Mental Health Month

Additional $500,000 Dedicated to FFRI to Help Farmers in Need SPRINGFIELD, IL – May is Mental Health Awareness month and also coincides with the spring planting season. Spring and fall are often the most stressful times for farmers and this…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Co-Responder Legislation into Law to Protect Victims, Address Root Causes of Crimes

Also signs bills to support families of victims of gun violence and improve law enforcement retention and recruitment Peoria, IL -- Governor Pritzker on May 10th, signed HB4736, authorizing the creation and funding of the Co-Responders Pilot…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

On May 6th, Governor JB Pritzker took the following bill action: Bill Number: SB0062 Description: Establishes that deposits to payroll cards are to be considered an indication of interest akin to withdrawals from such cards, unless the account…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $30 Million for Critical Stormwater Projects in Lake County

Funding will help manage flooding and mitigate ongoing effects of extreme weather caused by climate change LAKE COUNTY - Governor JB Pritzker on May 9th, joined legislators, community leaders, and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Illinois Celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month

May officially proclaimed AAPI Heritage Month; DCEO to host several events to support AAPI community with business resources Chicago - The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) today launched its Asian American and…

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Illinois’ Earns Credit Upgrade from S&P: Illinois’ Sixth Credit Upgrade Under Governor Pritzker

Two-Notch Upgrades from All Three Rating Agencies in Less than a Year SPRINGFIELD -- Governor JB Pritzker on May 6th, applauded S&P Global Ratings’ upgrade of Illinois bonds. This latest action means that Illinois has now received…

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Governor Pritzker Lowers Pension Liabilities Through Extended Buyout Opportunities, Additional Payments

The extended buyout option will result in further liability reduction and interest savings for taxpayers Springfield—Governor JB Pritzker on May 5th, signed House Bill 4292 into law, extending the pension buyout option for state employees to…

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Governor Pritzker Hails Two-Notch Bond Rating Upgrade From Fitch Ratings Illinois’ Fifth Ratings Upgrade in Less Than A Year

Fitch Cites “Fundamental Improvements in Illinois' Fiscal Resilience” in Upgrading State’s General Obligation Bonds and Build Illinois Bonds SPRINGFIELD -- Governor JB Pritzker hailed a two-notch bond rating upgrade from Fitch…

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Department on Aging Promotes Home and Community-Based Services During Older Americans Month

2022 Theme, Age My Way, Focuses on Aging in Place SPRINGFIELD, IL – Highlighting the vital, positive roles older adults play in communities throughout the state and the services that support them, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $250 Million in Grant Awards for Small Businesses

Back to Business program has awarded nearly 6,500 COVID-19 recovery grants to businesses in hard-hit sectors Chicago —During National Small Business Week, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic…

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Governor Pritzker Joins Secretary Pete Buttigieg for Ribbon Cutting at Joliet Gateway Center’s New Pace Bus Facility

JOLIET – Governor Pritzker, United States Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Congressman Bill Foster, and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined by local and regional transportation officials on May 4th, to…

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Pritzker Administration Focuses Remaining $84 Million Volkswagen Settlement Funding on Electric Transportation and Infrastructure

Illinois EPA submits revised Beneficiary Mitigation Plan to Trustee SPRINGFIELD — The State of Illinois is announcing the submittal of a revised Beneficiary Mitigation Plan (BMP) to the Volkswagen (VW) Settlement Trustee, focusing…

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Governor Pritzker Announces $113 Million in Anti-Violence Funding Now Available

Building on $73 million already distributed by DHS, second round of violence prevention funding opens on May 2, 2022 Chicago — Governor JB Pritzker announced the launch of $113 million in funding opportunities for community organizations…

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Governor Pritzker Joins Community Leaders to Celebrate South Side Arts Incubator

State Invests $1.7 Million in Rebuild Foundation Initiatives to Open Doors for Chicago’s Artists of Color CHICAGO – Highlighting additional state investments in creative facilities, Gov. JB Pritzker joined artists, advocates, and…

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Governor Pritzker Signs Legislation Expanding Access to Health Insurance for Families of Fallen State Workers

Family of Deidre Silas receives benefits under this new law CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker on April 29th, signed Senate Bill 3197, a piece of legislation that would expand access to health insurance benefits with no premium costs for the…

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Governor Pritzker Takes Bill Action

Bill Number: HB 4785 Description: Amends the Cook County Forest Preserve District Act by moving the Cook County Forest Preserve District levy to after the first Monday in October and by the first Monday in December annually. Action: Signed…

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Governor Pritzker Highlights $309 Million Assistance Program forIllinois Homeowners

Homeowners impacted by COVID-19 pandemic encouraged to apply for assistance on April 29th, CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker on April 29th, joined leaders from the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to highlight the opening of the…

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Governor Pritzker Celebrates $434 Million Investment in Higher Education Institutions

Deferred maintenance projects, including a façade repair at University of Illinois Chicago, made possible by Rebuild Illinois capital plan CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker on April 29th, joined leaders from the University of Illinois…

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Fiscal Year 2023 State Budget Includes Largest Investments in Higher Education in Decades

Historic investments help bolster equity in higher education and expand recruitment and retention efforts Springfield, IL - Higher education leaders across the state are celebrating the comprehensive FY 2023 state budget recently passed by the…

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Cultivating Our Communities Launches 2022 Campaign

We are because they farm. From the food on our tables to the specialty products in our cabinets—to the shops, markets, and businesses that support our communities—residents across Illinois are connected by Ag. That’s why…

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