News

On November 8, State Sen. John Curran (R-Downers Grove) welcomed a number of high school students from across the 41st Senate District to his annual Youth Advisory Council, a unique, hands-on opportunity for area students to learn about and experience state government and public policy.

Unemployment insurance rates will be lower in 2019 for more than 92 percent of the states employers required to register and pay state Unemployment Insurance (UI) taxes, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). IDES said Illinois business owners are on target to pay $240 million less in UI taxes in 2019 compared to 2018. UI taxes paid by Illinois businesses this year topped $1.9 billion. Employers are expected to pay $1.66 billion in 2019.

First Lady Diana Rauner is leading an effort to provide holiday cheer for Illinois members of the military.

The complexity of changes resulting from recent federal tax reform and the availability of guidance at the federal level has resulted in the deadline for abatement of penalties for late filing being extended to Nov. 15, according to the Illinois Department of Revenue.

Antibiotics are often used when they should not, which can cause them to stop working. Up to 50 percent of all prescribed antibiotics are not needed or are not effective as prescribed. Each year in the United States, at least two million people become infected with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and at least 23,000 die.

As lawmakers prepare to return to Springfield, State Senator Dale Fowler (R-Harrisburg) is providing an update on the upcoming scheduled fall Veto Session.

Dozens of students worked together in Bloomington to develop legislation that they hope can improve the state. The effort was part of State Sen. Jason Barickmans (R-Bloomington) Youth Advisory Council program...

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is recommending people start taking steps to ensure theyre prepared to stay safe and warm throughout the winter months. Its important to have an emergency supply kit at home that includes a battery-powered National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio, water and non-perishable food, flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit and supplies for pets and family members with special medical needs.

As a part of the Fiscal Year 2019 budget plan, two state facilities in the 59th Senate District will receive critical funding for repairs, updates and improvements on deferred maintenance projects.

Dozens of bills will be up for debate and discussion when the scheduled fall veto session begins Nov. 13. Members of the General Assembly will return to Springfield to either accept or override measures vetoed by Gov. Bruce Rauner earlier this year.

Dozens of high school students from across the 36th Senate District participated in a unique, hands-on experience in public policy, state government, and leadership Oct. 29 in Moline, as part of State Sen. Neil Andersons Youth Advisory Council.

The Illinois Department on Agings (IDoA) Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) is reminding seniors of the free counseling assistance available to Medicare-eligible individuals and their caregivers during Medicare Open Enrollment occurring October 15th through December 7th.

State Sen. John Curran (R-41st District) is commending the Illinois Attorney General and the DuPage County States Attorney for filing a lawsuit against Sterigenics, which will provide temporary relief for area residents concerned about the release of ethylene oxide into their communities. At the same time, Curran is reiterating his call for the Illinois Senate to advance his legislation that addresses this critical public health issue.

Over 50 high schools students from across the 26th Senate District got a unique, hands-on learning experience about public policy, state government, and leadership during their experience at State Senator Dan McConchies (R-Hawthorn Woods) 3rd Annual Youth Advisory Council.

Members of this commission will ensure Illinois plays host to events and activities that will boost tourism in Illinois. The Route 66 Centennial celebration gives us a unique opportunity to focus the world on all things Illinois.

First responders from across Sen. Neil Anderson's Senate District were honored and thanked for acts of bravery during his First Responders Appreciation Breakfast and Ceremony at the Candlelight Inn in Sterling and Theo's Java Club in Rock Island on Oct. 26.

First responders from across Sen. Neil Anderson's Senate District were honored and thanked for acts of bravery during his First Responders Appreciation Breakfast and Ceremony at the Candlelight Inn in Sterling and Theo's Java Club in Rock Island on Oct. 26.

Senator Tom Rooney (R-Rolling Meadows) is congratulating several nominees in and around the 27th District who have recently been named among the recipients of Bicentennial Honor 200 on Wednesday, Oct. 24, in Springfield. The event honors and recognizes Illinois veterans for the critical role theyve played in protecting our freedoms, serving our country and the positive ways in which they frequently contribute to their communities.

The following is a statement by Sen. John Curran (R-41st District) regarding todays report that the United State Environmental Protection Agency and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency failed to inform residents in a timely manner about health risks associated with ethylene oxide.

Senator Sue Rezin applauded a recent announcement that the state has acquired 2,629 acres of property in LaSalle County to protect natural resources and expand recreation opportunities, tourism and economic development near Starved Rock and Matthiessen state parks.

Its fall in central Illinois. Students are busy with school. Farmers are in the fields harvesting their crops. Sports fans are focused on World Series baseball, and high school, college and NFL football. Community organizations and groups are in full swing. People have a lot of responsibilities, and Senator Chuck Weaver said he very much appreciates when they take time out of their busy schedules to come to his community events and talk with his team.

In honor of Veterans Day on Nov. 11, State Sen. Dale Righter is spotlighting veterans from the 55th Senate District. This week, the honor goes to several members of the Flood family.

Honor 200 recipients represent more than 50 counties across the state of Illinois. Nominees were evaluated based on their achievements, and on the extent to which their contributions have aided, benefited and provided inspiration to their community at large.

The Illinois Department of Transportation is inviting the public to submit ideas for safety messages to display on the electronic signs located over highways throughout the state. The winning messages will be displayed at times throughout the year to help promote traffic safety. Winning entrants also receive a personalized street sign.

Recently, more than $14 million in capital improvement project funds were released by the Governors Office for the Department of Natural Resources state parks and recreation areas across the state.