First Listen: Recent Episodes

Michelle Eccles

Start the day adding NPR Illinois First Listen to your routine and hear the latest from the state capital (Springfield).

View Details

Public employees packed the Capitol asking for legislators to "undo Tier 2"

View Details

Bortolon honored for her years of dedication veterans and the Land of Lincoln Honor Flight.

View Details

Keagan Eck and Jane Holzmacher play the leads in the production.

View Details

Abortion supporters in Illinois say Donald Trump's presidency could have a big impact on patients traveling to here for care.

View Details

A federal judge in southern Illinois overturned an Illinois ban on assault-style firearms.

View Details

Madigan's corruption trial on Friday featured a recording of son Andrew Madigan.

View Details

Following the election, immigrant rights advocates held a news conference to respond to president-elect Donald Trump's victory

View Details

Nikki Budzinski says her win was stronger than it was two years ago

View Details

A popular Springfield downtown restaurant impacted by a June fire is securing a new location.

View Details

Some races are still to close to call.

View Details

Voters will decide more than who will be the nation's next president.

View Details

The governor’s budget office is now forecasting a $3-point-2 billion dollar budget shortfall for the fiscal year beginning next July.

View Details

Jurors heard an FBI recording of Madigan’s co-defendant soliciting another Madigan insider for money.

View Details

Isringhausen's Cainan Barnett discusses the three winners and what the DRIVE hopes to accomplish downtown

View Details

Cousineau said ComEd lobbyist Mike McClain was frequently present for strategy meetings and phone calls with the speaker's top staff.

View Details

Capitol News Illinois reports former ComEd lawyer tom O'Neill says the lobbyist often seemed to be working on behalf of ex-Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan

View Details

State Democratic Chair Lisa Hernandez says the state GOP has fallen out of touch with voters

View Details

Twenty-eight-year-old Trooper Corey Thompsen was killed in a crash on October 18.

View Details

The recordings included one of long time friend and co-defendant Mike McClain

View Details

On Wednesday the jury heard more about Commonwealth Edison's financial transformation

View Details

Sangamon County Clerk Don Gray details your voting methods for this election

View Details

Two former state lawmakers who served with the former Illinois House Speaker were called to the stand

View Details

The judge says it is up to a jury to decide on matters in the corruption case against former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

View Details

County Clerk Don Gray says there has been a steady stream of voters

View Details

First Listen for Oct. 1, 2024

View Details

SIU School of Medicine's Jerry Kruse will still co-chair but he will be joined by co-chairs Sonya Massey's cousin, Shadia, and retired State police officer, JoAnn Johnson.

View Details

Richmond says by the end of 2025 significant progress will be made at clearing the site

View Details

Mayor Buscher says homeless coordinators worked with those at the encampment offering resources

View Details

The mayor's office says Memorial Behavioral Health and Springfield outreach officials were on location to offer resources and contact information

View Details

Attorneys say a language barrier contributed to the unnecessary removal.

View Details

The Festival is nearing a record for cars registered to participate.

View Details

Kwame Raoul wants warning labels for social media.

View Details

Posey says they will be going door-to-door in the Ward 4 community near Bunn Field.

View Details

First Listen for Monday Sept. 23, 2024.

View Details

The Thursday mistrial in the case of former AT&T of Illinois president Paul LaSchiazza is a blow to federal prosecutors

View Details

Founder of the page, Paris Ervin, talks about how the page has grown

View Details

Sheriff Paula Crouch says she wants to rebuild community trust with law enforcement.

View Details

Paula Crouch will be the first women to serve as Sangamon County Sheriff

View Details

Julia Rolens discusses her experience preparing to go on stage and tells us more about the musical

View Details

Chairman Andy Van Meter has nominated Crouch after the committee recommended her.

View Details

Retired Sangamon County Seventh Circuit Judge and former Sangamon County State's Attorney Patrick Kelly, who served as teh chair for the committee, talks about the committee's process.

View Details

The judge will decide if banning guns like the AR-15 is constitutional.

View Details

Sunshine Clemons, co-President of Black Lives Matter Springfield, watched the Massey Commission listening session on YouTube and shares her takeaways.

View Details

Public defenders are filing more paperwork and spending more time in court arguing before judges who decide whether their clients should be jailed or not.

View Details

Co-chair Dr. Jerry Kruse, Dean and Provost at SIU School of Medicine, says the commission is hoping to fine tune its focus based on community input

View Details

Newly appointed state GOP co-chair Aaron Del Mar says needs to adjust to the local political climate to thrive.

View Details

The decision could impact those who were jailed before the SAFE-T Act took effect.

View Details

Paul LaSchiazza, former President of AT&T, is accused of signing off on a no-work consulting gig for an ally for former House Speaker Michael Madigan.

View Details

The "Ignite the Future" campaign kickoff takes place this Thursday at Southwind's Erin's Pavilion

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 30, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 29, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 28, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Tuesday Aug. 27, 2024.

View Details

First Listen for Monday Aug. 26, 2024

View Details

Tourism in Springfield generated a local economic impact of $601.3 million in 2023

View Details

Durbin calls Vance's comment that Chicago is the "murder capital of the world" hypocritical.

View Details

Buttigieg revs up Illinois Democrats over Donald Trump's criminal record

View Details

Barack Obama says his mother-in-law stood for honesty, kindness and hard work.

View Details

Sangamon County Coroner Jim Allmon will serve until a new sheriff is named.

View Details

County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter plans to announce the committee to vet Sheriff applicants today or tomorrow.

View Details

State Senator Doris Turner details the commission's task

View Details

The fundraising would help women that travel to Illinois for abortions.

View Details

People from 49 countries participated in the naturalization ceremony.

View Details

Springfield NAACP President Austin Randolph is in Washington, D.C. for the designation

View Details

Attorney Ben Crump on a bill to require law enforcement agencies to report their officers' minor infractions to a state database.

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 8, 2024.

View Details

Cynthia Higginson and Mike Schneider discuss the show.

View Details

The state's fiscal year starts in July and tax revenue jumped nearly $400 million more than a year ago.

View Details

Critics of Israel continue to hound political Jewish leaders.

View Details

Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark highlights some of the events at the 2024 fair.

View Details

Teachers' union representatives say they like that Tim Walz is a former teacher and appreciate the types of policies he may bring to the white house.

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 8, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Aug. 7, 2024

View Details

Massey's family is joined by criminal justice experts in the call.

View Details

The Federal Railroad Administrator Amin Bose says Illinois is the perfect choice for the National University Rail Center of Excellence.

View Details

Sheriff Jack Campbell says there was nothing in his records that would preclude him from being hired

View Details

SUL President and CED, Marcus Johnson, says reforms are needed in addition to a change in culture.

View Details

Tiffany Williams, Ava Southern and Kinsey Peotter join us to talk about the show

View Details

Reverend Al Sharpton calling for passage of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act

View Details

Buscher says she's monitoring city business while staying at her husband's side after he suffered a complication following surgery.

View Details

Campbell tells crowd at Department of Justice listening event that the department failed Sonya Massey and he asked the community for forgiveness. He said he won't "abandon the office".

View Details

The Department of Justice holding a Community Healing and Listening Session tonight in Springfield.

View Details

The police responded to a call of shots fired around 11:30 in the morning on Thursday.

View Details

Records show Grayson was discharged for a serious offense of official misconduct

View Details

Attorney Ben Crump says he does not know many of the details but similar investigations looked into civil rights violations

View Details

Budzinski says she joins Sonya's family and others in seeking justice and accountability

View Details

Massey family attorney Ben Crump said the deputy's actions were inhumane and heinous.

View Details

The footage will be released at 2 p.m.

View Details

Deputy Sean Grayson faces three counts of first degree murder and other charges and was denied bail.

View Details

Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell calls it a tragic incident and says his heart breaks for Sonya Massey's family

View Details

Traveling through the Nashville proves to be a challenge.

View Details

Springfield Public Works Director David Fuchs says the city continues to keep the 400 block of Adams Street closed as a safety measure

View Details

Prior to the convention Illinois Republicans experiences intraparty fighting.

View Details

Chris Wills, from the ALPLM discusses the Travelers' Choice award.

View Details

Crump wants the body cam footage released to the public.

View Details

In the Rodgers and Hammerstein production of Cinderella, Ella helps the prince find the strength to take control of his kingdom.

View Details

The Illinois State Police says body cam footage won't be released at this time

View Details

McCann's sentencing came after he pleaded guilty in February to wire fraud, money laundering and tax evasion.

View Details

Law enforcement was called to the area for a report of a prowler.

View Details

Roman Zematis, the baker, and Addelyn Shawver, the baker's wife, discuss their experience with ACTT and the show.

View Details

Governor JB Pritzker says Logan is overdue to be replaced

View Details

The U.S. Supreme Court declines to consider the constitutionality of Illinois' semiautomatic ban

View Details

Superintendent Jennifer Gill says no action has been taken but the school board has been discussing cell phone limits.

View Details

Springfield Police were called to a north side home on Saturday morning and discovered a 51-year-ol woman with multiple stab wounds.

View Details

Following last year's deadly dust storm and the closures of I-55 this year, Climatologist Trent Ford says soil protection methods are good way to prevent blowing dust.

View Details

Gordon and Tammy Fidler have pulled together various businesses and musicians for the fundraiser.

View Details

Governor JB Pritzker signed a package of legislation on Wednesday outlining several new tax incentives and economic development programs.

View Details

The Mayor’s Awards for the Arts program recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses dedicated to the arts and with a strong connection to their community.

View Details

The new agency will focus on childhood services like home visits and daycare licensing

View Details

The American Heart Association attributes the projected boos in cardiovascular disease to the cost barriers that prevent healthy eating

View Details

Owner Mark Forinash says it is going to take some time before Moxo can return to 411 Adams Street

View Details

Southern Illinois public transportation districts receive $1.8 million dollars

View Details

DSI Executive Director Carlos Ortega talks about the market and the fire

View Details

Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher says the closure is in the interest of safety

View Details

The capital budget plans to spend $41 billion through 2030.

View Details

An analysis shows hotel room rates in Chicago are higher for the DNC than for other events this summer

View Details

The state of Illinois plans to shut down and rebuild Stateville near Joliet

View Details

Officials continue to monitor the health of livestock and people

View Details

Schools may need to adapt to accommodate what students need

View Details

The virtual vote is planned to accommodate the Ohio November ballot.

View Details

Workers would be trained and supplied with opioid overdose reversal drugs.

View Details

Pritzker's sixth budget since taking office in 2019 calls for $53.1 billion in state funding

View Details

Cordae Curb, who is now 16 , and Dremone Patterson, was was 16 at the time of the offense, both will have their cases tried in adult court

View Details

Johnson says Trump's campaign has seen record numbers of donations after the verdict

View Details

The Illinois legislature passed a permanent state child tax credit

View Details

Governor JB Pritzker says justice has been served, but Illinois GOP Chair Don Tracy says it was political prosecution.

View Details

Pritzker says the $53 billion dollar spending plan is the sixth balanced budget to come from his administration

View Details

The 53 billion dollar budget passed, but the revenue package proved more difficult to agree on

View Details

The State Senate passed a budget on Sunday.

View Details

The U.S. EPA is providing $2.6 million to Moving Pillsbury Forward for cleanup

View Details

Seven people injured Tuesday in accidents caused by a dust storm

View Details

First Listen for Wednesday May 22, 2024.

View Details

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says policing and technology have evolved since the DNC in 1968.

View Details

Credit monitoring agencies wouldn't have access to some medical debt information under an Illinois bill.

View Details

The Postmaster General says the shift will be delayed to next year at the earliest

View Details

Lawmakers are proposing a yearly $300 chlld tax credit for parents in certain income tax credits.

View Details

A new report shows gas utilities are spending too much, and customers will pay the price

View Details

He says he won't go back to the ways that made Illinois a credit unworthy state

View Details

The additional dollars would assist with housing services as well as Welcoming Centers

View Details

Ascension is one of the state's largest hospital systems, with 14 hospitals and 150 care sites.

View Details

Keyon Day was shot multiple times on his way to Southeast High School on April 24.

View Details

The Illinois obesity specialist says if the state provides weight loss drug coverage for state workers, that coverage should extend to those on Medicaid.

View Details

Democrat Tracy Katz Muhl says university officials are doing a good job of adjusting and adapting and keeping students safe

View Details

The report analyzed federal data to assess maternity care an reimbursement is an issue.

View Details

The contracts for the unions expire in August.

View Details

The students still plan to protest

View Details

The noncompete measure will have an impact on the health care industry.

View Details

It is almost crunch time as lawmakers hope to finish up remaining business by May 24

View Details

Governor JB Pritzker proposed a plan to address homelessness in his budget

View Details

The proposed program would help increase pregnancy care for all women.

View Details

First Listen for Thursday April 25, 2024.

View Details

The state will be holding hearings as the prison faces demolition.

View Details

The Healthcare Protection Act ban practices used by insurance companies to hold down costs by denying claims and directing patients to cheaper options

View Details

Among the top concerns for the Illinois housing industry is a tax credit they say would help with affordable housing

View Details

The bill aims to reduce plastic waste.

View Details

First Listen for April 18, 2024

View Details

First Listen for April 17, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Tuesday April 16, 2024.

View Details

If the court strikes down the conviction of a Portage, Indiana mayor it could narrow the federal bribery law

View Details

The lawmaker wants police to be absolutely sure they are stopping someone for a good reason

View Details

The state is exploring establishing a state board to look into the policy

View Details

Thousands gathered in southern Illinois and southeast Missouri to see the celestial spectacle

View Details

Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias says the way facilities currently serve customers is confusing.

View Details

First Listen for April 8, 2024

View Details

First Listen for Friday April 5, 2024.

View Details

Nearly nine in 10 Illinois citizens thing pensions should be taken away earlier from a corrupt politician

View Details

More than 200 Illinois medical professionals call on state lawmakers to create a Prescription Drug Affordability Board

View Details

Walgreens and CVS asked to protect patients health data

View Details

Four people, ranging in age from 15 to 63, died after being stabbed in a neighborhood and seven others were injured.

View Details

HSHS restores its MyChart system following a cybersecurity incident, Illinois healthcare providers asked to stop taking copays from undocumented residents covered under a state healthcare program, the Illinois State Fair sets an attendance record, and a bomb threat at Lanphier High School on Tuesday.

View Details

9/11 remembered, eight workers injured in Sunday's ADM explosion, UIS and UIUC student enrollment up, and longtime lawmaker from Eastern Illinois Bill Black has died.

View Details

An explosion at ADM in Decatur injures several workers on Sunday night, two months after Emma Shafer's murder police still searching for the suspect, legislators considering reenacting rent control in Illinois, an initiative between Illinois and Mexico promoting agriculture research and Kroger reaches a settlement requiring it to pay for its role in the opioid crisis.

View Details

Illinois plans to continue support for vulnerable students as COVID funding expires, union membership decreasing nationally, Former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan giving up his last vestige of power, and former Governor Rod Blagojevich waiting for a judge to act on his lawsuit.

View Details

Secretary of Health and Human Services promotes attention to student mental health, Healthy School Meals for All is law in Illinois, UIS cuts ribbon on esports gaming arena, SIU Carbondale sees an enrollment increase, and House Speaker Mike Madigan won't seek reelection to Cook County Democratic committeeperson.

View Details

HSHS says its phone systems are back up, but there could still be delays, emergency official has concerns about ability to respond to a carbon capture rupture, more than two dozen patients and advocates testify about health care for low income immigrants, and members of the Illinois House Speaker's staff are hoping to unionize.

View Details

Governor defending Prisoner Review Board over the Joe Coleman Medical Release Act, Illinois officials to hold a public hearing on state funded health insurance for low-income immigrants, public meeting Wednesday on Springfield's Hunter Lake, Arab-American Groups applaud a new Illinois law adding to the race box on state forms.

View Details

Some driver facilities in Illinois will be taking appointments for in-person visits, Bradley University President explains some of the reasons why Bradley is facing cost cutting measures, and the Illinois Supreme Court is rolling out procedures to prepare to the end of cash bail.

View Details

HSHS continues to struggle with a disruption to its communication and computer systems, government wiretaps proving to be pivotal in cases related to political corruption in the state, a new immunotherapy may be used to treat cancer, a shortage of bus drivers is causing some districts to get creative with scheduling, and Decatur's airport looking at new carriers.

View Details

HSHS Medical group impacted by a system outage impacting communications, security increased in Ball Chatham school district due to online threats, Sangamon County Sheriff looking for two men accused of stealing scrap metal from the Illinois State Fairgrounds, and a 35-year-old woman was hit by a train and died on Monday.

View Details

An Illinois law will require businesses to include salary information in job listings, the cost of rent is rising in Illinois, school districts finding ways to improve teacher morale, and concerns rising over COVID activity in Illinois.

View Details

Mapes found guilty of perjury and obstruction of justice, ISU professor charged with sexually assaulting a minor, missing Rochester man is located, and Arlington Heights hires a lobbying team to assist with Bears possible move.

View Details

The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Madigan's top aide is with the jury, Illinois is hoping to get more women to go into construction, Illinois' Planned Parenthood gearing up for more patients from Indiana, and Illinois reports its first human West Nile related death this year.

View Details

Closing arguments begin Wednesday in the federal trial of Tim Mapes, the Illinois Secretary of State is condemning a rash of bomb threats at libraries, the U of I will no longer use race in its admissions process, and former central Illinois lawmaker Richard Luft has died.

View Details

Federal prosecutors wrap up their case against Tim Mapes, Congresswoman Robin Kelly's husband has died, Illinois' available jobs now surpass pre-pandemic levels and health officials remind people to watch out for heat related illnesses this week.

View Details

A pilot program for farmers to donate to food banks is now law, three-year-old girl seeking asylum dies on a bus en route to Chicago, electric vehicle rebate becomes available in November, and Peoria-based OSF Healthcare hopes to open former St. Margaret's Health hospital in Peru soon.

View Details

The quakes were considered minor and were centered near the Illinois-Indiana border.

View Details

Ameren planning to upgrade and add new transmission lines, Chillicothe man sentenced to ten years in federal prison, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin pushing for a regional hydrogen hub, federal student loan borrowers will soon have to start paying their loans again.

View Details

A federal jury sees email exchanges in the trial of Madigan chief of staff Tim Mapes, new regulations prohibit the gun industry from certain marketing practices, Virden pilot who died in weekend crash is identified, and Illinois FFA students can now be excused from class for agriculture events.

View Details

The Illinois Supreme Court upholds the state's ban on semi-automatic firearms, Governor Pritzker vetoes bill to remove state's moratorium on building nuclear power plants, training for renewable energy jobs will happen in Bloomington, and electronic cigarettes banned in public places.

View Details

Federal prosecutors question a south suburban lawmaker in Mapes' case, Governor Pritzker says the Mapes' trial is an essential step to cleaning up state government, more than 30 workers at one Department of Human Services facility face impacted because of their connection to an investigation into pandemic-era fraud, a World War II solider will finally be laid to rest.

View Details

Illinois to outlaw advertising for some firearms, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin concerned about the supply shortage for generic drugs, Springfield Public Schools still trying to hire teachers for this school year, and Cook County public health system struggling to find enough workers.

View Details

Memorial Health System makes cuts in leadership, administrative and support positions, the Governor signs a law to further cap costs for insulin, another law requires coverage for prosthetic and orthotic care, a new study finds nearly half of the people who use skin lightening products don't know the health risks, and U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy coming to Illinois.

View Details

Thousands of Illinoisans kicked off Medicaid, civil rights lawyers calling for intervention to address mental health treatment at an Illinois prison, Illinoisans bought more cannabis products at dispensaries last month then any other month since recreational use became legal and the state treasurer announces a new incentive program for a college savings program.

View Details

Trial begins today for a top aide to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, Farm to Food Bank program established, full day kindergarten will be a requirement in Illinois by 2027 and an Illinois power grid study reveals a switch would be very costly.

View Details

Forty-seven thousand Illinoisans kicked off Medicaid due to eligibility questions, Governor Pritzker announces states plans to expand the state's electric vehicle ecosystem, a St. Louis man charged in connection with the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, and a former Northwestern football player says he faced intense racial harassment and sexual and sexual and physical trauma.

View Details

A seminar held in Champaign on teaching Asian American history in Illinois schools, AARP wants a tax credit for unpaid family caregivers and three legislators attend a constitutional convention simulation.

View Details

Congresswoman Mary Miller condemns indictment of former President Donald Trump, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker launching a program to help coordinate abortions at hospitals for high risk patients, Horace Mann reports its second quarter earnings, a pair of Central Illinois lawmakers say they won't seek another term.

View Details

An administrator says students need more exposure to career paths other than college, the Transportation Secretary announces significant funding for the St. Louis area, and one legislator is challenging an insurance company policy to base rates on credit scores.

View Details

A Springfield woman found guilty of cyberstalking, a new state law aims to do a better job of reintegrating formerly incarcerated people and Governor Pritzker getting some heat over a state audit showing fraudulent and excessive employment benefits were issued during the pandemic.

View Details

The extreme heat may impact mental health, a state plan to combat homelessness, a Democrat state legislator wants to change the cap for estate taxes, and the ALPLM to host a sensory friendly afternoon.

View Details

Crickets indicate temperature, low income neighborhoods tend to be at more risk from heat, a call for Illinois to close crumbling prisons, and Northwestern's new head football coach makes his first public appearance.

View Details

A Heat Advisory in effect today through Saturday in Central Illinois, the American Red Cross says take special care if you have to be outdoors this week and keep an eye on others and your pets, AFSCME has a new ratified contract with the state and Springfield continues its application for federal disaster assistance.

View Details

Addt'l counties added to disaster proclamation and recovery efforts continue, the National Weather Services says this week will be extremely hot, U.S Secretary of Health and Human Services discusses lowering the cost of prescription drugs and more top stories.

View Details

More than half of Great Lakes' beaches closed to swimming at some point in past year, a Sangamon County judge rules Illinois' Firearm owners' ID law is constitutional, Illinois U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth says she'll oppose any cuts to specialized positions at the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, Illinois hopes a Joliet electric vehicle plant will draw more EV makers to the state.

View Details

Hundreds remember Emma Shafer at a candlelight vigil, Forum tonight on proposed CO2 Pipeline, the Illinois Supreme Court plans to announce Safe-T Act decision on Tuesday.

View Details

An Illinois Congresswoman speaks out against inclusive policies for transgender youth, fatal accident on train tracks in Virden, Raymond James to pay 8 million dollars to refund clients for "unreasonable" commissions, U-S senator Tammy Duckworth pushes for farm safety programs and crop insurance in new farm bill.

View Details

Law enforcement continues to search for the man suspected of killing Emma Shafer, Victims in the Chicago Police sexual misconduct investigation have yet to be identified, some Democratic Attorneys General condemn their Republican colleagues for a recent letter to Fortune 500 CEOs, Instagram users in Illinois may be eligible for a portion of a class action lawsuit.

View Details

The Illinois Supreme Court rules elimination of cash bail is constitutional, advocates who lobbied for an end to cash bail say it won't lead to violent criminals on the streets, Judge Richard Mills and Judge James Zagel have died, services set for Springfield woman killed last week, and an Illinois carnival ride closed after a 10-year-old injured.

View Details

The Illinois Supreme Court expected to decide on the issue of ending cash bail this morning, the Illinois Supreme Court suspends law licenses of Comm Ed former top CEO and it one time top lobbyist, Black drivers in Peoria six times more likely to be stopped by police than white drivers, a measure to prohibit businesses from paying disabled individuals below the minimum wage may be back in the legislature this fall.

View Details

Hundreds remember Emma Shafer at a candlelight vigil, Forum tonight on proposed CO2 Pipeline, the Illinois Supreme Court plans to announce Safe-T Act decision on Tuesday.

View Details

Sangamon County Coroner identifies stabbing victim in Springfield while search continues for suspect, three defendants in the Comm Ed bribery trial are trying to get the federal jury's findings overturned, new data from Illinois Board of Higher Education shows Illinois children are still leaving the state to go to college elsewhere,

View Details

Sangamon and Morgan counties declared state disaster areas, Illinois shifting the way it collects data on abortion, former state representative Dan Brady says he won't run for office in this next election cycle, a government watchdog group proposes solutions for Illinois' pension problems, federal prosecutors want to use dozens of secret recordings in the upcoming trial of former House Speaker Michael Madigan's top aide.

View Details

Two convicted defendants in Comm Ed trial could see law licenses suspended, Illinois sets record for hotel revenues, and Springfield says the cost of restoring power from derecho probably around $20 million dollars

View Details

Springfield and Chatham ready to enter next phase of recovery following June storm, Illinois State Museum returning sacred artifacts to Africa, food truck operators calling for more consistent and affordable regulations, Chicago Police investigating misconduct allegations connected to multiple officers and migrants.

View Details

Springfield's mayor is assessing expenses from the derecho recovery effort, NPR Illinois' first news director Rich Bradley has died, Rockford a step closer to passenger rail into Chicago, and Illinois is challenge the U.S. Census count from 2020.

View Details

CWLP hopes to have most residents power restored by Sunday, UIS offers up its student union for residents without power, Darren Bailey is running for Congress, and one state lawmaker from Chicago pushing for a surcharge on festival tickets.

View Details

Widespread storm damage blamed for slow progress in restoring power in Springfield, BOS Center opened as a shelter/cooling center, Highland Park remembers those lost last fourth of July, and a gun control bill which addresses restraining orders still in limbo.

View Details

Crews continue to restore power four days after storms hit central Illinois, Highland Park approaches one year anniversary of July 4 mass shooting, and a bond rating agency says Illinois budgets may have trouble keeping up with rising pension costs.

View Details

Thousands still without power, state of emergencies declared in Springfield and Chatham, and reaction to the Illinois Supreme Court decision on affirmative action

View Details

Thousands still without power, state of emergencies declared in Springfield and Chatham, and reaction to the Illinois Supreme Court decision on affirmative action

View Details

A state retirement system has voted to revoke former Rep. Luis Arroyo's pension.

View Details

Newscast for June 26, 2023.

View Details

Wake up with news headlines from NPR Illinois.

View Details

Start your day with reports on how the Illinois National Guard plans to bring in new members in a tight labor market, protests take place over limits on health care for undocumented immigrants, negotiations continue with AFSCME on a new state contract and there are growing calls to close youth prisons.

View Details

One of two EMS workers charged in the December death of a patient is out on bond, Springfield Police continue to search for the driver of a deadly hit and run, Springfield ranked ten most affordable cities for homebuyers, federal housing assistance funding limited, Atlanta, and Illinois ramping up tourism efforts for Route 66 Centennial.

View Details

Illinois releases money for communities to transition from carbon to clean energy, challenging an Illinois state law now must happen in Cook or Sangamon counties, and businesses begin reopening after Davenport building collapse.

View Details

Specialty farmers say drought conditions are challenging them this season, Highland Park prepares for its first Fourth of July following last year's mass shooting, the city of Chicago set to receive more funding to manage influx of migrants, and a leading respiratory group concerned by a budget cut for electric vehicle rebate program.

View Details

National Park Service says Springfield Race Riot site can become part of park system, the State Capitol in Springfield undergoing major renovation, Regan Deering running for 88th Illinois House representative, Saint Margaret's Health closing its Spring Valley hospital.

View Details

A Danville abortion clinic will still open despite attacks, former State Representative Dan Brady is considering a run for Congress, Governor JB Pritzker has signed legislation addressing workers' rights, scientists predict flash droughts could get more common, and another Chicago suburb wants the Bears to make their city home.

View Details

Lawmakers pass a bill to protect out-of-state patients seeking abortions, Illinois Democratic Congressman Mike Quigley isn't convinced Donald Trump will ever be held accountable for alleged mishandling of documents, neighborhood quality impacts mental health of Black Americans, and Illinois officials work to reduce number of boating accidents.

View Details

Stolen SNAP benefits will not be replaced, the governor hopes the new Illinois Grocery Initiative will help increase food access, Memorial Health and Illinois College team up to help relieve the nursing shortage, and Illinois may allow drones at public gatherings for security reasons.

View Details

Three people still missing in Davenport, Iowa apartment collapse, Decatur Public Schools close two of its campuses due to structural concerns, Springfield Police investigating the shooting death of a man on Wednesday, Governor Pritzker visits SIU to tout higher education programs, and Illinois Chamber President Todd Maisch dies at 57.

View Details

The search continues for any survivors in Davenport, Iowa after a building collapse on Sunday, the Farm Progress Show is an economic driver bringing in an estimated 31 million dollars of indirect and direct dollars, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin no concerned about President Biden's age if he is reelected, and the Great Lakes named a "Hope Spot."

View Details

Illinois Senate passes state budget, the City of Chicago delays action on aid for asylum seekers, unemployment in Springfield falls, USA EPA announces grant for Moving Pillsbury Forward, and IDOT says much of the construction will be paused for Memorial Day weekend.

View Details

Higher ed prison programs may need to publicly report data, still no state budget agreement, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin works to reduce healthcare inequities and the Citizens Club of Springfield to address changes in the media landscape.

View Details

Investigation finds 450 Catholic clergy in Illinois abused more than 2,000 children, Illinois lawmakers continue negotiations on the budget, Cook County's Sheriff Tom Dart looking help from automakers in addressing carjackings, and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says the 14th amendment should not be applied to prevent a debt ceiling default.

View Details

The legislature is still working on the state budget, Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza announces a transfer to the Rainy Day Fund, a measure passed to allow unlimited punitive damages in wrongful death lawsuits, a hospital closure in Peru, and a pro-life group fighting Carbondale's bubble zone ordinance.

View Details

Lawmakers discuss ways to improve access to healthcare, Illinois Republican Party encouraging its rank-and-file to embrace vote by mail, a proposal to help the Bears move to Arlington Heights to be heard at a committee hearing, Northeastern University reaches a contract deal and the outdoor farmer's market season has arrived.

View Details

The State of Illinois looking at applications for a new conditional cannabis dispensary permit, legal challenges to Illinois' ban on semi-automatic firearms and large capacity magazines leave gun owners stuck in the middle, Cook County's Sheriff sounds the alarm about Illinois' failure to enforce its own gun laws and Springfield's fire department to begin fire hydrant testing.

View Details

Springfield's new mayor names her staff, authorities warn of home repair scams and a Springfield man dies in weekend motorcycle accident.

View Details

Flash flooding due to overnight storms, a legislative panel says Illinois could experience a revenue dip, the Illinois House works to ensure generic prescription drug manufacturers don't gouge prices and another street closure in downtown Springfield due to rail project.

View Details

Get the latest news from NPR Illinois

View Details

Some gun shop owners say gun sales are up after a judge's action to block the state's assault weapons ban, environmentalists pushing against development of carbon dioxide pipelines in Illinois and Muslim groups rally at the Capitol.

View Details

Four former ComEd execs found guilty of bribing former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, employees in Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch's office trying to unionize, high winds force closure of Interstate 55 again one day after accident caused by blowing dust, and the Sangamon County Coroner says 64-year-old Donna Romine of Springfield died of a single gunshot wound.

View Details

Interstate 55 reopens following Monday's deadly crash due to dusty conditions, nearly 30 percent of cigarettes smoked in Illinois are smuggled into the state illegally, Southern Illinois Congressman Mike Bost says he's ready to take on challengers, and two Chicago area higher institutions are merging.

View Details

One gun shop owner taking his case on the assault weapons ban to U.S. Supreme Court, unemployment dips in Springfield, and retired military leaders concerned about military readiness

View Details

Jury for the ComEd bribery trial ask questions in first day of deliberations, Illinois' House Republican leader says her top priority is a balanced budget, and EIU faculty ratifies a new contract.

View Details

The ComEd bribery case is now in the hands of the journey, Cook County's state's attorney says she won't run again, one company helping students with cannabis horticulture education and SIU Board of Trustees to consider tuition and fees for next year.

View Details

Lawmakers working to do more to protect victims of fentanyl and more top stories, American Library Association observing National Library Week with a "Right to Read" Day, and a proposal in the legislature to let bettors know how much they are spending.

View Details

Scheels Sports Park at Legacy Pointe to be done in one phase and includes a sports dome, Inauguration for Springfield's new mayor will be on May 5, Closing arguments in the ComEd bribery trial expected on Monday, Chicago's mayor-elect wants to change the school funding formula and it's National Donate Life Month.

View Details

ComEd's former head boss tries to distance herself from Michael Madigan, Illinois Senate Republicans say a series of measures would increase business in Illinois, an East St. Louis educator named Illinois Teacher of the Year and a Western Illinois University student who shot his roommate in 2020 appealed his 18-year prison sentence.

View Details

East St. Louis Housing Authority spending millions to renovate and expand public housing, Congresswoman Budzinski says President Biden should be positioned well for a re-election campaign, Chicago officials say the DNC Convention will benefit neighborhoods across Chicago, and ISU Athletic Director resigns.

View Details

Best selling author testifies in ComEd bribery trial, strikes continue at Illinois state universities, and several Illinois school districts receive false school shooting threats

View Details

Comm Ed bribery trial continues with Madigan's self-proclaimed precinct captain, assault weapons ban lawsuit goes before a federal judge in Southern Illinois, a Springfield man dies while working on the HVAC system at Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport, and Springfield Police Chief Ken Scarlette on leave to treat prostate cancer.

View Details

The state's economy continues to grow slowly, a measure to give abused and neglected children their own representation moving through the legislature, Governors State faculty will strike today, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul has filed a lawsuit against multiple companies that manufacture PFAS and legislation aims to require retailers to take cash for items under $750.

View Details

Comm Ed bribery trial will soon turn to the defendants case, Illinois needs more affordable rental homes, some Illinois counties hit medium level for COVID and the Illinois Education Association urging the state to create a task force to look at SASS program.

View Details

An EF3 tornado hit Lewiston on Tuesday night, wear blue for Child Abuse Prevention month, City of Carbondale elects a transgender councilperson, and the U.S. EPA announces funding for drinking water upgrades

View Details

Misty Buscher wins bid to become Springfield's mayor, three new faces will be on the Springfield city council and Chicago elects Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson as mayor.

View Details

Voters making choices for mayor, alderman, school board and more at the polls today, strong storms with tornadoes possible expected this afternoon and evening in Central Illinois, and Illinois lawmakers passing measures to further define probable cause with traffic stops.

View Details

One person killed in Belvidere roof collapse caused by Friday storms, the National Weather Service says tornadoes that hit Sherman, Riverton and other areas packed winds of 130 miles per hour and the Laborers Disaster Response Team assists in Sherman

View Details

An effort in Illinois Senate Democrats to make insulin more affordable, Federal prosecutors lay a barrage of secret recording in Comm Ed bribery trial, Lutheran High looking at a new fundraising campaign for a new school following mine subsidence, and the Catholic Diocese of Peoria examining its size.

View Details

Comm Ed bribery trial continues with one of its most important witnesses, Illinois House passes a measure to require full day kindergarten, Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi continues to advocate for changes at Tik Tok and more top stories.

View Details

Prosecutors in Comm Ed federal bribery trial go deep into the former Illinois House Speaker's inner circle, State Senator wants a review of the SASS program, a recall on eyedrops following the discovery of a bacteria which is linked to the death of three people, and food prices expected to be up eight percent over last year.

View Details

A south suburban lawmaker takes the stand in the Comm Ed bribery trial, a police standoff in Springfield ends with man surrendering peacefully, abortion rights opponents rally outside the Capitol, Illinois schools hope filters prevent the spread of respiratory viruses and the Pritzker administration names a new Deputy Governor for Public Safety, Infrastructure, Environment and Energy.

View Details

Missouri's Attorney General issues emergency regulations to stop gender-affirming care, US EPA proposes first federal standards to regulate PFAS, US Senator Dick Durbin tested positive for COVID again, Decatur Police make an arrest in shooting that left two dead, two high school students from Eastern Illinois died in a sledding accident and singer-songwriter Jackson Browne coming to Springfield.

View Details

Legislation proposed to ban cat declawing, an effort to create a commission to decide if Illinois should have a new state flag, the failure of the Silicone Valley Bank could effect tech startups, and EIU and its faculty and support staff continue talks.

View Details

Testimony underway in federal corruption trial involving former ComEd execs, unemployment ticked up slightly in Springfield in January, a lottery employee accused of stealing lottery tickets and cashing in on winnings and more top stories.

View Details

Opening statements in trial of former Commonwealth Edison executives begin, lawmakers move head to meet the state's Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, Governor Pritzker continues to tout his proposed budget for higher education, rail improvement project to close Madison and Jefferson streets, EPA issues drinking water notices to 10 state prisons and animal rights advocates call for a ban on competitions where wildlife are killed.

View Details

Illinois Supreme Court hears arguments on no-cash bail law, Governor Pritzker says he expects the Illinois Supreme Court will uphold the no-cash bail law, Moody's upgrades Illinois' general obligation bonds, and Governor Pritzker calls on pharmacies to announce if they'll sell abortion medication.

View Details

Employers in Illinois to be required to offer 40 hours of paid leave to employees, UAW members ratify a new contract, Illinois Grocery Initiative will help rural towns, Des Plaines river to receive money for ecosystem restoration project, Quincy man charged with murder in death of his estranged wife, and a recent UIS graduate advances on American Idol.

View Details

Votes on proposals to improve DCFS expected in the coming weeks, flood outlook among the Mississippi River increasing, USDA report shows number of farms in the U.S. is down by nearly 10,000, and a state House committee advances a plan to grant Chicago cops and firefighters full benefits if they became disabled from COVID-19.

View Details

Illinois' unemployment rate falls, economists say Illinois will take in less revenue next fiscal year, study shows Illinois lacks enough psychiatric beds for children, Congressman Darin Lahood believes he was the subject of improper FBI queries, and Illinois Supreme court to consider the state's new assault weapons ban.

View Details

Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center to be repurpose, Daylight Saving Time is disruptive for those with Alzheimer's or dementia, Illinois sees a snowfall amount this year that ranks as one of the least amounts on record, Facebook sends out additional checks for a settlement involving privacy regulations and more top stories.

View Details

Choate Mental Health and Developmental Center to be repurpose, Daylight Saving Time is disruptive for those with Alzheimer's or dementia, Illinois sees a snowfall amount this year that ranks as one of the least amounts on record, Facebook sends out additional checks for a settlement involving privacy regulations and more top stories.

View Details

Chatham Police investigating gas pump credit card skimmers, IDOC Director Rob Jeffreys is stepping down, United Auto Workers gets commitment from Caterpillar to hold off on plant closings, Springfield city council send a measure to limit the mayor's ability to forgive utility debt for more discussion, and more top stories.

View Details

Explosive materials found at alleged Highland Park gunman's home, Lambert International Airport sees an increase in passengers in 2022, State Senator Doris turner introduces a proposal to explore a new state flag and a bill going to the Illinois House considers giving monetary awards when they win discrimination lawsuits claiming emotional distress.

View Details

Lawmakers scrutinizing the DCFS hiring process, inflation formula leaves out rural America, Navigator Heartland Greenway continues to get pushback for its pipeline, and a new Illinois guide on reproductive rights.

View Details

Springfield Park District receives state grant for Gietl Park, Illinois lawmakers trying to do more to hold rideshare companies to the same legal standard of care as other traditional modes of transportation, a suspicious item near Sangamon Towers causes an evacuation, Sacred Heart Academy's Sienna Hall to be knocked down and more top stories.

View Details

Illinois Supreme Court set to hear arguments on no cash bail law, the number of people in Illinois who've had to surrender their firearms has gone up, early childhood development home visit advocates are hoping for more state money for providers, and more top stories.

View Details

A measure to help families of first responders killed in the line of duty, investment in early childhood education could improve Illinois' economy, Illinois Attorney General sues the FDA over restrictions on abortion drug and Caterpillar workers consider a new contract proposal.

View Details

Congresswoman Miller calls for ban on foreign nationals purchasing U.S. land, Illinois tutoring initiative helping students in the Metro East, Springfield's mayoral candidates agree more police are needed to deal with crime, and the Illinois State Fair plans some new theme days.

View Details

Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski meets with Akorn workers, leaders in some cities hope the state will give them more help, some Illinois Republicans want Choate Developmental Center to be fixed not closed and Illinois' general obligation bonds receive another rating upgrade.

View Details

A coalition of governors aims to protect reproductive rights, Illinois' craft cannabis industry sees a deadline extended, Springfield City Council approves TIF funding to demolish two buildings, and Illinois governor continues to travel the state to promote his preschool Smart Start program.

View Details

Former Springfield Alderman and the Korndog King Bob Vose has died, Brandt Consolidated's co-founder starts the Daytona 500, a standoff in Springfield ends with no injuries, Congressman Eric Sorenson wants strict regulations for carbon dioxide and more top stories.

View Details

Governor Pritzker touts early education program, Illinois' Latino Caucus thinks the governor's budget is a start, U of I working on a social media tutoring platform and more top stories.

View Details

Governor Pritzker's State of the State focuses on education including universal preschool, Republicans concerned the budget will lead to a tax increase, Advance Illinois applauds the governor's proposals says the investment in education may still fall short in education funding adequacy and more top stories.

View Details

Early childhood education expected to be the focus of Governor Pritzker's State of the State, some lawmakers want relief for Ameren customers, new state law designed to help with bus driver shortage, chance for flooding this spring is slightly above normal and reflecting on the NIU shooting 15 years later.

View Details

FBI warns of romance scams, a plan to move hundreds of migrants to a former K-Mart in Chicago gets pushback, HSHS lifts visitor restrictions, Lincoln Laureates include former Springfield Mayor Karen Hasara and rebate payments issued by Illinois in 2022 won't be taxed.

View Details

State Senator Doris Turner pushing for body cameras for EMS workers, two Illinois state senate committees will be co-chaired by Republicans, Chicago is a frontrunner for the 2024 Democratic National Convention and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration still working on CBD regulations

View Details

Some lawmakers want DCFS children to have their own attorneys, Springfield police investigating death of three-year-old child, State police are advising people to designate a sober driver if they plan to drink at Super Bowl parties and more top stories.

View Details

New USDA rules to eliminate organic fraud, Bed Bath and Beyond set to close in Springfield, Ameren files for a rate increase, an effort to help families pay for diapers, and the city of Springfield still battling over the future of the Wyndham Hotel.

View Details

A proposal to help the Bears build a stadium, a group of Comm Ed execs want to limit evidence against them in an upcoming federal corruption trial, and a Judge denies request to lower bond for two Springfield EMS workers charged with first degree murder.

View Details

Springfield mayoral candidates discuss downtown, crews set to survey for underground water main leaks in Springfield, Congresswoman Mary Miller boycotting President Biden's State of the Union speech, Chicago's time to crime for guns shortest among big cities, the Illinois National Guard has a new major general and more top stories

View Details

A proposal to require gun shops to ensure their inventory is secure, a Warehouse Safety and Standards Task Force established in Illinois, Congressman Darin LaHood says he's willing to explore reasonable police reforms, auto insurance costs are on the rise, and a mental health action plan for the courts in Illinois.

View Details

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin agrees with raising the debt limit, enrollment at Illinois colleges continues to decrease, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker says Illinois won't offer a "watered down" first of AP African American History, a Southern Illinois lawmaker files another lawsuit against the assault weapons ban, and more top stories.

View Details

Illinois House Republicans want more input on state budget, the Old State Capitol will be closed during its next phase of restoration, Cook County state's attorney drops charges against R Kelly following the federal convictions and Springfield Sangamon Growth Alliance President and CEO Ryan McCrady details the documentary, "History Reborn."

View Details

Elgin Superintendent will be new State Schools Superintendent, confusion over donations to fight the assault weapons ban, an Illinois Appellate Court narrowly upholds a temporary restraining order preventing the assault weapons ban from going into effect in some places, and a 13-year-old Decatur boy shot and killed.

View Details

A new financial incentive to attract mega projects in Illinois, additional work on the Old State Capitol underway, 56-year-old Springfield semi-truck driver found dead in his truck, and the St. Louis Cardinals announce a new play-by-play television announcer.

View Details

Illinois Supreme Court to hear arguments regarding no cash bail, Illinois task fore recommends reassessment of sentence length for those in prison, Springfield Administrative Court files now accessible online through the city clerk's website, Governor Pritzker says the DCFS director will keep his job, Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program gets more funding and more top stories.

View Details

SNAP benefits to return to pre-pandemic levels, air service from Springfield to Dallas will end in June, the number of children treated for gunshot wounds at St. Louis Children's Hospital increases 50 percent in first two years of pandemic and more top stories.

View Details

Arrest made in Peoria Planned Parenthood arson, Peoria Planned Parenthood suffered more than a million dollars in damages, UCLA law professor says a U.S. Supreme Court decision last summer may guide assault weapons lawsuits and more top stories

View Details

Governor Pritzker announces transit projects, another lawsuit filed against the assault weapons ban, a pedestrian injured by a train in Springfield, and Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder says they are still working to keep hotel space in the Wyndham.

View Details

Illinois has a new state water plan, a new legislative proposal to improve pay and training for temporary workers, a central Illinois lawmaker plans to sue the state over the new assault weapons ban, Illinois Department of Natural Resources has a new director and UIC reaches agreement with faculty.

View Details

Illinois State Museum Director has died, a state senator hopes when colleges close that the professors will look at teaching K-12, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says Congress is working on alternative funding for road and bridge projects and more stories

View Details

Civil lawsuit filed in the death of Earl Moore Jr., Gun control advocates say they are confident the assault weapon ban will stand, Democrats want a different state to take the election lead in the Primary, and the Illinois State Board of Education wants a $350 million budget increase

View Details

A judge hears arguments on the new assault weapons ban, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin says he's open to spending cuts as part of a deal to raise the debt ceiling, Springfield Schools to look at a mindfulness training program and the Peoria Planned Parenthood clinic will be closed for several months after Sunday's arson fire.

View Details

Congressman Darin LaHood doesn't support raising the debt ceiling, Illinois approves nearly 300 million dollars to assist asylum seekers, the assault weapons ban facing legal challenges, and a class action settlement with Par-A-Dice Casino in East Peoria could benefit patrons who were caught on facial recognition cameras.

View Details

Tracking COVID as people test at home becoming more difficult, State Senator Sally Turner, the new Republican Party whip stands with law enforcement in its refusal to enforce the state's new assault weapons ban, former Illinois congressman Rodney Davis has a new job lobbying in Washington, Illinois General Assembly considering a bill to remove psilocybin from the list of Schedule 1 controlled substances, and efforts to create a Broadband service map.

View Details

Many Illinois Sheriffs say they won't enforce the state's assault weapons ban including Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, Quincy's new veterans' home nearly complete, UIC faculty members may walk off the job next week and more top stories

View Details

The new General Assembly has been sworn in, the new Quincy veterans nearly complete, no injuries at a chemical plan fire in Northern Illinois, and other stories

View Details

Two EMS workers facing murder charges in death of a Springfield man, assault weapons ban legislation headed to the governor, State Representative Tom Bennett, now State Senator, says lawmakers don't deserve a pay raise and Alexi Giounnoulias signs an executive order making changes in the Secretary of State's office.

View Details

Inauguration festivities held for Illinois constitutional officers, State Representative Jim Durkin resigning, former House Speaker Mike Madigan's racketeering trial set for this spring, the Illinois Senate passes assault weapons ban and more.

View Details

No vote from the Illinois senate on assault weapons and expanding abortion protections, state lawmakers vote to give themselves a pay raise, inauguration day for Illinois' constitutional officers is today, DCFS inspector general identifies one of the agencies major problems, a judge dismisses lawsuit filed against Rivian, and national farm income likely reached new highs in 2022.

View Details

The Illinois House passes an assault weapons ban, Springfield restaurant owner to serve as state representative in 95th Illinois House District, UIS is removing its COVID-19 vaccination testing requirements for those on its campuses, U of I Chicago faculty threaten strike, and a fatal accident on Route 104 near the Auburn/Pawnee exit on I-55.

View Details

Insurance analyst predicts shift in the nation's top auto insurer, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker is confident the elimination of cash bail will stand, Representative-elect Nikki Budzinski still waiting to be sworn in, Illinois State Police announce automatic renewals for some FOID cards, and the National Weather Service says the tornado outbreak on Tuesday was the largest since 1989.

View Details

Illinois lawmakers expect to address an assault weapons ban, Menard county sheriff's deputy a member of the Illinois General Assembly for a few days, a latex ban in food service and more top stories

View Details

Congressman Adam Kinzinger talks about his next moves, a newly created research center in Chicago to focus on impacts of cannabis usage, and a Black Illinois homeowner claims State Farm commits covert racial discrimination with its claims

View Details

Winter Storm Warning through Saturday, IDOT advises travelers to be prepared and fighting the holiday blues

View Details

Winter Storm likely to create dangerous driving conditions, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart supporting an assault weapons ban, Illinois receives funding to improve Broadband access, hate crimes are on the rise in Illinois and historic preservationists still trying to save the Rock Island county courthouse.

View Details

State Senator Scott Bennett remembered, a Kankakee judge to hear oral arguments on the SAFE-T Act, a New Berlin teenager dies following Friday car accident, Springfield police make nine weapons arrests, two Chicago students killed outside a high school in the Pilsen neighborhood, Illinois to add an official snake and an official theater in 2023.

View Details

The census of agriculture is underway, more speak out on possible assault weapons ban in Illinois, pre-k programs still seeing the impacts of COVID

View Details

Illinois' former public health director says required time off is a good policy, Asian American representation in Illinois legislature has increased but still lags behind the general population, an infrastructure bill will help upgrade locks and dams, and the FBI warns to be aware of scammers

View Details

One state lawmaker expresses concern over recent legislator resignations, the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act has failed to meet many of its goals, smoke detectors with a sealed, ten-year battery become the standard for homes in 2023, Real vs. artificial Christmas Trees and Decatur's mayor will be running unopposed.

View Details

Hearings to discuss an Illinois assault weapons ban begin, the process begins for State Representative Tim Butler's replacement, Flags to fly half staff for State Senator Scott Bennett, Illinois' pension liability continues to grow

View Details

Addressing mental health for our youth, a push to speed up the transition to electric trucks, Evanston will see its lead drinking water pipes replaced, Illinois bettors place more than a billion dollars in wagers in October

View Details

Inspector General documents a culture of co-worker abuse at Pontiac prison, Highland Park doctor lobbying for assault weapons ban, IDPH offering a new HIV treatment, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin praising passage of Respect for Marriage Act, and a triple event at the Carillon in Springfield this weekend.

View Details

UIS completes purchase of downtown Springfield building, Illinois legislature o see its first two Muslim in the General Assembly, Springfield School Board approves purchase of property for a new elementary school, and Taylorville's Kroger will reopen this month

View Details

A new study says Illinois could do more to curtail gun violence and more top stories, Illinois prisoners will have access to free menstrual products and underwear, air pollution found to affect early childhood development, and a study to discover if mRNA vaccine could work for the flu.

View Details

The Illinois legislature approves changes in SAFE-T Act, prosecutors prepare for the act, an appellate court reversed several contempt of court citations against DCFS Director, Illinois legislature proposing a ban to assault rifles in Illinois, Illinois lawmakers approve a measure to pay off the debt in the unemployment fund.

View Details

A plaque now highlights Barack Obama's presidential announcement at the Old State Capitol, Illinois lawmakers pass a measure to withdraw investments in Russian or Belarusian assets, some lawmakers supporting a measure to make some areas Tourism Improvement Districts and former WIU President Jack Thomas the subject of an investigation by the Ohio Attorney General.

View Details

Illinois lawmakers and business leaders strike a deal to pay back the state's unemployment insurance fund, McLean county has a plan for how to handle bond hearings when cash bail ends, Illinois likely to be passed over for leading the presidential election primary, and Springfield Clinic offering its own health plan.

View Details

Unclear whether changes will be made to the SAFE-T Act during the fall veto session, Erin Johnson appointed to serve as the state's Cannabis Regulation Oversight Officer, a group of volunteer pilots flying patients for free to access abortion care, and Springfield's mayoral race appears to be set

View Details

Lawmakers want to stop pawn brokers from offering high interest loan, FBI warns of hackers targeting high-tech farm methods, Data shows abortions are up in Illinois following Roe vs. Wade Supreme Court decision, and the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology warns shoppers to watch for scams.

View Details

The Thanksgiving Dinner costs around 20 percent more this year, IDPH urging residents to take precautions to avoid spreading COVID and flu this holiday season, O'Hare airport moving forward with a major construction project, and two people file for Springfield Mayor

View Details

Illinois House Republican leader says Republicans need to do more outreach to the Chicago suburbs, Researchers find a connection between access to reproductive care and economic outcomes for women and children, and Rivian being criticized by trying to force a former employee into arbitration over her sexual harassment allegations

View Details

Illinois' unemployment rose slightly last month, former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan remains fundraising force, and Illinois Senate votes to prohibit investments of state funds in Russia

View Details

The Illinois House Republicans' new leader bullish on the future, State Senator Steve McClure wants more public discussion on Safe-T Act, and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth says her party has to work with Republicans to pass bills

View Details

The Workers Rights Amendment passes, a lawmaker from Dupage county is challenging election results, Illinois' budget could see a significant surplus, and a central Illinois prosecutor calls for tougher laws to combat fentanyl epidemic

View Details

Illinois lawmakers back at the capitol for the veto session, a new Illinois Supreme Court justice is sworn in, an Auburn man who pled guilty to assaulting a law enforcement officer in the January 6th insurrection arrested in connection with a deadly crash on Interstate 55

View Details

Social equity cannabis dispensaries are opening, Illinois House Republican leader Jim Durkin says the former president bares much of the blame for election losses, and Springfield School Board will hold special meeting to fill vacancy left by the death of Mike Zimmers

View Details

State Representative Tim Butler stepping down, Democrat Congressman-elect Eric Sorenson says bipartisanship will be crucial in next Congress and Bradley University's Brad McMillan discusses why we didn't see a substantial "red wave"

View Details

A former Springfield officer won't face criminal charges for racist social media messages, Governor JB Pritzker downplaying any presidential aspirations, Republican Senate Leader Jim Durkin says he won't run for re-election for that post

View Details

JB Pritzker wins another term as Illinois' governor, Democrats maintain control of the state's executive offices, Democrat Nikki Budzinski wins the 13th Congressional District

View Details

JB Pritzker wins another term as Illinois' governor, Democrats maintain control of the state's executive offices, Democrat Nikki Budzinski wins the 13th Congressional District

View Details

It's election day, the Illinois Attorney General says elections will be monitored and you should feel confident you'll be able to vote safely, vote-by-mail voters set a record and the popularity of that method of voting could cause delays.

View Details

A few area counties now at Medium community level for COVID-19, the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate has reached an agreement with Schuyler County regarding misprinted ballots and CUB has a new electric vehicle buyers guide

View Details

One expert says the removal of valuable artifacts from the state-run presidential museum in Springfield could mar its reputation, two environmental justice groups say most coal-fired plants are not complying with federal rule to curb groundwater contamination and Senator Dick Durbin says more federal dollars should be allocated to protect lawmakers against political violence

View Details

A Chicago man faces multiple felony charges for allegedly threatening to kill Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey, the Clinton Nuclear Power Plant wants to keep generating for 20 more years and Rockford community members express concern over the school district's handling of a incident with a school resource officer

View Details

Company makes a mistake in polling place text, former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan enters not guilty plea at arraignment hearing and the Illinois Supreme Court consolidates 58 county-level lawsuits challenging the state's SAFE-T ACT.

View Details

Mail-in ballot requests down from 2020, City of Springfield's budget director running for city treasurer, and two killed in I-55 crash

View Details

An effort to stop mail-in ballots from being counted following Election Day, a class action lawsuit alleges the U.S. government broke its promise of debt relief, and Illinois agritourism businesses to receive a liability tax credit

View Details

Former AT&T President appears in court, research shows public universities increase economic and social mobility for the residents in their counties and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior hears pleas regarding the church that hosted Emmet Till's funeral

View Details

13th district congressional candidates differ on how to lower prescription drug costs, Metro East abortion clinic seeing a rise in the number of patients, and more on a mortgage assistance program

View Details

More than half of Illinois voters say abortion should remain legal, Illinois Democrats continue to outspend Republicans in this election and a mountain lion sighting only the eighth confirmed one in 20 years

View Details

Governor Pritzker continues to outspend Darren Bailey in the race for Illinois' top spot, the 13th Congressional District race shows the Democrat leading spending on the campaign, and a demonstration in Bloomington on new voting machines nets zero participants

View Details

A new poll shows Democrats will fare well in Illinois' statewide office races, Republican Illinois treasurer candidate wants to combine the treasurer and comptroller offices, and the latest federal conspiracy charge against former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan stems from legislation pushed by AT&T.

View Details

A false narrative on the LGBTQ community resulting in more protests, former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's chief of staff appears in court and Taylorville Kroger could reopen soon

View Details

Business leaders tour Beer Nuts on a manufacturing spotlight tour, a reproductive center opens in Carbondale and two police officers shot and a Decatur man killed following a traffic stop.

View Details

Illinoisans will continue to see political mailers that look like newspapers, the Chicago Times takes down its paywall, Gubernatorial candidates debates, and more top stories

View Details

Black and brown business owners say they are still being left out of Illinois' cannabis industry, Illinois gubernatorial candidates face off tonight, and Springfield Public Schools board member Mike Zimmers died Wednesday morning

View Details

Governor Pritzker says some changes to the PreTrial Fairness Act are worthy of consideration, Rockford is home to first cannabis social equity craft grower license and Springfield's Community Access Project 1908 officially opens

View Details

An incident involving a natural gas pipeline on Monday morning causes evacuation of some residents in Morgan County, Planned Parenthood launches mobile abortion clinic in Southern Illinois and civil rights lawyers say mentally ill prisoners in Illinois are less safe

View Details

An incident involving a natural gas pipeline on Monday morning causes evacuation of some residents in Morgan County, Planned Parenthood launches mobile abortion clinic in Southern Illinois and civil rights lawyers say mentally ill prisoners in Illinois are less safe

View Details

New research from the University of Illinois Chicago finds social and political biases are undermining democracy, Illinois voters vote on a Workers' Right Amendment this year, the Federal Highway Association approves Illinois' network of charging ports and more

View Details

Letters threatening lawsuits over voter fraud arriving at many election offices, the public asked for input on Illinois' state water plan and July 4th Highland Park shooting victims file lawsuits against Smith & Wesson

View Details

COVID relief money helps pay down unemployment insurance debt, some state access limitations for opioid treatment are too restrictive and Moving Pillsbury Forward receives environmental study back

View Details

An outgoing Republican lawmakers in Illinois wants to use inflation to drive down property taxes, sports betting in Illinois is growing and COVID numbers have been dropping

View Details

Illinois sells $2.6 billion in corn and soybeans to Taiwan, Republicans calling for harsher penalties for dealing fentanyl, and Springfield man charged in 2021 Adams County home invasion

View Details

Republicans say New York's cash bail reform offers a scary preview for Illinois, a call for more oversight of a deal with a company providing ankle bracelets for criminal defendants, and newspaper circulations continue to fall

View Details

The Illinois State Fair sees record attendance, union membership in the state up for the first time in four years and other top stories

View Details

DCFS could learn from other states on improving child welfare system, strong demand for updated COVID vaccine, State Farm Insurance settles lawsuit with Mississippi over Katrina claims

View Details

A lawyer who represents an assault victim shown in a campaign ad is speaking out and Illinois Republican candidate for Attorney General says the SAFE-T Act needs work

View Details

Now that rail strike has been averted, Amtrak is adjusting and Illinois voters can access a digital mail in ballot

View Details

Springfield man charged in double murder case near Southwind Park and an Auburn man pleads guilty in the Jan. 6, 2021 US Capitol breach

View Details

Springfield man is arrested in connection with double homicide, Illinois Supreme Court Chief Justice Anne Burke retiring and other top stories

View Details

Authorities investigating a suspected double homicide on Springfield's south side, Republican congressman Darin LaHood calling for tax credits to boost manufacturing, and tax rebates coming to Illinois taxpayers

View Details

Illinois wants answers about migrants bused in from Texas, Cannabis sales in Illinois exceed one billion, and Illinois universities reporting mostly good news on enrollment

View Details

UIS enrollment is up and a Springfield woman sentenced for her role in a Sangamon County Jail escape and more top stories

View Details

Darren Bailey says he can fix the state, Lake County man exonerated for 1993 murder and other top stories

View Details

Springfield Police solve the mystery of a person walking with a gun, Jesse White returns to work following a week of working remotely due to COVID and more top stories

View Details

Increased police patrols by some schools in Springfield due to a man with a gun, Illinois sees first death from the West Nile Virus this year, Illinois receives funding to address abandoned oil and gas wells

View Details

Debt relief in limbo for Black and brown farmers, Illinois native trees threatened, Two cases of Monkeypox confirmed in Sangamon County and a new COVID-19 vaccine being tested

View Details

A push to unionize Illinois marijuana dispensaries, Illinois Legislative Inspector General says he's not a prosecutor, Citizens Against Heartland Greenway Pipeline file opposition to pipeline project and Sangamon County sees its first two Monkeypox cases

View Details

Work to develop a Downtown Springfield-Medical District Master Plan is underway, Secretary of State Jesse White has COVID, NIU reports its first Monkeypox case

View Details

Biden student loan forgiveness likely won't have a big impact on the economy and reaction to that plan, plus more top stories

View Details

Memorial Health and ISU offer more opportunities for nursing students, A cohort called the Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative to help those with autism and Springfield Public Schools still looking to fill vacancies

View Details

A Springfield Alderwoman says she won't run again, a diabetes drug could help fight COVID and Household Hazardous Waste Collection events cancelled

View Details

A battle over abortion for Illinois U-S Senate candidates, the Inflation Reduction Act impacts farmers of color and Peoria wants red light cameras

View Details

Teen dies after shooting in Springfield, Illinois' Rainy Day Fund at record balance and other top stories

View Details

DCFS simulation training won't happen at UIS and DuPage County is the healthiest

View Details

Two of Illinois gubernatorial candidates react to the search of former President Donald Trump's home, Springfield teachers reject contract and Cook County Judge vacates Marilyn Mulero's wrongful murder conviction

View Details

A structural engineer visits Litchfield building collapse site on Monday, Sheriffs win suit over delayed transfer of inmates and other top stories

View Details

State agencies in Illinois no longer subject to federal oversight, Illinois increasing funding for abortion providers and a study shows how farmers maintain high crop yields with less fertilizer

View Details

A Springfield alderman suggest a lien could be put on the Wyndham to get require payment to CWLP, the Illinois Attorney General warning of a scam using fake bank website and more top stories

View Details

The Springfield City Council rejects zoning change for the Wyndham Hotel, and a man arrested after threatening mass shooting in Champaign

View Details

The Springfield City Council rejects zoning change for the Wyndham Hotel, and a man arrested after threatening mass shooting in Champaign

View Details

Report shows Springfield police stop black motorists five times more than white drivers, Illinois Republican gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is on the defensive and a heat advisory for Central Illinois

View Details

Lawsuit settlement money to help treat those impacted by the opiod crisis, COVID booster shots encouraged this fall and abortion providers traveling out of state

View Details

Federal loan help for Highland Park businesses, grants for Illinois tourism, and Springfield's new Economic Development Director

View Details

Closing a loophole when it comes to revoked gun permits and ammunition, concern over young adult access to assault style weapons and more on Congresswoman Mary Miller's meeting with Iranian Americans for Liberty