Illinois has filed lawsuits against the Trump administration over aggressive immigration enforcement tactics by ICE agents and plans to withhold funds tied to transgender policies, following incidents sparking protests in neighboring states. WTTW reports the state joined Minnesota in challenging these federal actions, amid concerns over public safety and overreach. Meanwhile, Governor JB Pritzker broke ground on an $87 million transformation of Illinois State University's Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts, funded by Rebuild Illinois, to modernize spaces for arts education and community engagement, with completion set for 2028. The Illinois State Board of Education requested a $350 million boost to K-12 funding via the evidence-based formula, alongside increases for student transportation, though facing a projected $2.2 billion state deficit. Chalkbeat Chicago notes this comes as progressive groups push for new taxes on the wealthy.

In business and economy news, Site Selection Magazine ranked Illinois number one in the Midwest and third nationally for workforce development, crediting innovative training programs and $13 billion in 2025 investments. The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $24 million in grants for new Manufacturing Training Academies at downstate community colleges. However, the National Federation of Independent Business outlined 2026 priorities opposing tax hikes, job-killing mandates, and expanded liability for small businesses, as the General Assembly's spring session began this week. Critics like Senator Don DeWitte decry a new energy law signed by Pritzker that removes utility rate caps, potentially raising bills for families.

Crop budgets from farmdoc daily project negative returns for corn-soybean rotations in 2026 despite federal support, signaling challenges for farmers. No major recent weather events reported.

Looking Ahead: Watch for debates on a Chicago Bears stadium, progressive taxes, higher education spending, and Tier 2 pensions as the legislative session runs through May. Data center moratoriums in Aurora and federal funding freezes add uncertainty.

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Illinois' 2026 legislative session kicked off today with the Senate convening in Springfield, while the House follows on January 20, according to the NRA-ILA. Governor JB Pritzker continues his bold media strategy, needling President Trump amid 2028 speculation, daring him on MSNBC to "come and get me" over federal tensions, as detailed by WGLT. Chicago and the state have sued the Trump administration to curb ICE agents' roving patrols and crowd control tactics without probable cause, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul stated.

Over 250 new laws took effect January 1, including bans on discriminatory AI use in workplaces via House Bill 3773 and enhanced CPA licensure pathways, per the Illinois CPA Society. A controversial energy law signed by Pritzker eliminates electric rate protections, potentially hiking bills to fund experimental programs, Senator Don DeWitte warned. The legislature eyes federal program changes ahead of Pritzker's February 18 budget address, with IVCA noting impacts on state spending.

Economically, Illinois ranks number one in the Midwest and third nationally for workforce development, fueled by 10 credit upgrades since 2021 and $13 billion in 2025 investments, Business Facilities reported. A $24 million funding opportunity opened for six Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges targeting AI, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing, GovMarketNews announced. Small businesses face tariff strains but push for capital access and workforce policies, Small Business Majority urged. Rebuild Illinois infrastructure spending hit $2.2 billion last fiscal year.

Community efforts include AASA grants to Posen-Robbins School District for improvements and $193 million federal rural health funds, though short of Medicaid cuts, per state reports. No major recent weather events reported.

Looking Ahead: Watch Pritzker's budget speech, MTA applications due April 30, and potential anti-gun pushes as the session runs through May.

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Illinois is starting the year with a mix of major policy shifts, economic momentum, and community-level change that listeners across the state will feel in daily life.

According to WSIU Public Broadcasting and the State Journal-Register, nearly 300 new Illinois laws took effect this month, touching education, health care, public safety, veterans’ services, and consumer protections, as well as immigrant rights and the use of AI in classrooms. These outlets report that the package also includes measures to strengthen child welfare standards and refine criminal justice procedures. WSIU Public Broadcasting and the State Journal-Register also note that hundreds more bills are queued up for the 2025–26 session, meaning listeners can expect continued legislative activity.

On the budget front, NPR Illinois reports that the Trump administration has frozen roughly 10 billion dollars in federal social services funding for five Democratic-led states, including Illinois, prompting state officials to prepare a legal challenge and warn of strain on child care and family assistance programs. NPR Illinois says Governor JB Pritzker is at the same time touting a new energy law designed to push cleaner power generation while maintaining grid reliability and easing the sting of recent high electric bills.

At the local level, the Illinois State Association of Counties reports that its 2026 legislative agenda is focused on county fiscal stability, stronger local decision-making authority, and updated rules for siting wind and solar projects, reflecting ongoing tensions over how rapidly to expand renewable energy. ISACo also highlights efforts to bolster funding for county veterans services.

In the economy, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity reports that Site Selection Magazine has ranked Illinois number one in the Midwest and number three nationally for workforce development, citing the state’s talent pipeline and training initiatives. DCEO notes more than 13 billion dollars in incentivized investments in 2025 and credit rating upgrades since 2021, signaling improved fiscal health. GovMarketNews reports that Illinois has opened a 24 million dollar funding opportunity to build six Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges, targeting advanced manufacturing, clean energy, life sciences, quantum computing, AI, and ag tech to meet evolving workforce needs.

In education and infrastructure, the Illinois State Board of Education notes that more than 17,000 graduating seniors earned the state Seal of Biliteracy last year, and school districts are being offered no-cost carbon-free assessments to reduce energy use and modernize facilities.

Looking Ahead, listeners should watch court battles over the federal funding freeze, implementation of the new energy and education laws, competition for new manufacturing academies, and local debates over wind and solar siting and major development projects.

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Illinois is entering 2026 amid financial tension with Washington, major policy shifts in Springfield, and a mix of economic optimism and local concern. According to NPR Illinois, the Trump administration has frozen about 10 billion dollars in social services funding for five Democratic-led states, including Illinois, prompting state leaders to head to court to restore money meant for child care and family assistance. NPR Illinois also reports Governor JB Pritzker is promoting a new energy law aimed at cleaner power generation while stabilizing the electric grid and containing consumer costs.

On the legislative front, LegiScan notes that lawmakers in the 104th General Assembly are weighing wide-ranging measures. These include bills to tighten restrictions on PFAS “forever chemicals” in consumer products, an expansion of “Clean Slate” expungement for criminal records, pension changes for public workers, and a proposed End-of-Life Options Act for terminally ill patients. LegiScan also highlights a resolution opposing any state income tax on retirement income, signaling ongoing sensitivity around taxation policy.

Local governments are pursuing their own agendas. The Illinois State Association of Counties reports that county officials’ 2026 priorities emphasize fiscal stability, stronger local decision-making, and updated rules for siting wind and solar projects to better balance renewable energy with community concerns. In Danville, CNHI News describes city leaders hustling to assemble incentive packages to attract new employers, underscoring the competition for business investment even as costs rise.

Economically, there are signs of strength in workforce development. The Governor’s Office and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity recently touted Illinois’ top Midwest ranking for workforce development in Site Selection Magazine, reflecting ongoing investments in training and talent. GovMarketNews reports the state has opened a 24 million dollar funding opportunity to create six new Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges, targeting advanced manufacturing, clean energy, quantum technologies, and ag tech to support future jobs.

In community news, Senator Chris Balkema notes that nearly 300 new Illinois laws took effect at the start of the year, touching education, health care, veterans’ services, and public safety. The Illinois Association of School Boards’ Leading News roundup points to new education measures dealing with immigrant rights and responsible use of artificial intelligence in classrooms, while health officials maintain that recent federal vaccination policy changes will not alter Illinois’ own guidance.

Significant weather has been relatively quiet so far this winter, with state attention more focused on flu surges and infrastructure than on major storms, according to coverage compiled by the Illinois Association of School Boards.

Looking ahead, listeners should watch the court battle over frozen federal social service funds, implementation of the new energy law, debate over PFAS and criminal justice “Clean Slate” legislation, and whether Illinois can convert its workforce investments into sustained job growth and business expansion.

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Illinois is entering the new year amid brisk political maneuvering, targeted economic investments, and evolving community priorities across the state. Politico’s Illinois Playbook reports that mounting budget pressures in Springfield have revived talk of a graduated income tax, though Governor JB Pritzker backs the idea only “in principle” and has signaled it is not a priority for 2026, keeping broader tax reform on a slow track for now. Politico also notes growing buzz around statewide races, including Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s endorsement of Margaret Croke for state comptroller, underscoring early positioning ahead of the next election cycle.

On the legislative front, nearly 300 new Illinois laws took effect January 1, touching education, healthcare, public safety, and veterans’ services, according to a breakdown from State Senator Chris Balkema. Balkema emphasizes that while some changes mark progress, there is ongoing concern about regulatory complexity and its impact on businesses and families. ABC7 Chicago reports that new statutes now protect immigrant students from being excluded or discouraged from school participation based on immigration status, expand scholarship eligibility regardless of citizenship, and strengthen workplace protections by broadening what counts as unlawful employment practices. ABC7 also highlights new measures on gun storage safety and lost or stolen firearm reporting, reflecting continued focus on public safety.

Economically, Illinois is leaning into incentives and workforce development. St. Louis Public Radio reports that a newly expanded STAR bond program, signed by Governor Pritzker as part of SB 1911, allows local governments statewide to use state sales tax revenue from major projects to repay bonds for developments creating at least 300 jobs and $30 million in capital investment, with the goal of luring large-scale attractions and thousands of new jobs. Effingham Radio reports that Pritzker and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity have opened a 24 million dollar grant program to establish six new Manufacturing Training Academies at downstate community colleges, aimed at high-demand manufacturing and clean energy jobs. The Governor’s Office says these academies are part of the state’s long-term economic growth plan and build on recent facilities in Normal and Belleville.

At the local level, Des Plaines officials are moving ahead on a new Costco Business Center and gas station, with ABC7 Chicago reporting construction could begin by the end of the year, signaling continued retail and logistics growth in the suburbs. In Danville, CNHI reports the mayor and city council are working to stay competitive in attracting businesses as companies seek larger incentive packages.

Significant weather events have been relatively limited so far this month, with no major statewide disasters reported, though winter conditions continue to pose routine travel and infrastructure challenges typical for Illinois this time of year.

Looking ahead, WAND reports that Illinois House leaders are preparing for the 2026 legislative session with competing priorities on taxes, public safety, and social services, while the expanded STAR bond window and new workforce grants could shape where major developments land over the next two years. Listeners can also expect ongoing debate over federal funding cuts for childcare and social services, as highlighted by Capitol Fax, and continued scrutiny of how new laws are implemented in schools and workplaces.

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Illinois kicks off 2026 with over 250 new laws taking effect, including the Sonya Massey Law mandating comprehensive background checks for police hires to prevent tragedies like her 2024 shooting death, as reported by WAND-TV and FOX 32 Chicago. This reform, championed by Sen. Doris Turner, also expands sheriff merit boards in larger counties. Other key changes tighten gun storage rules, requiring theft reports within 48 hours without fines for intruder thefts, and protect the Mahomet Aquifer from carbon capture risks, a vital water source for 800,000 Central Illinois residents, according to Sen. Chapin Rose cited in WAND-TV.

In government and politics, the state legislature delivered worker protections via the Workers Rights and Worker Safety Act, preserving federal OSHA standards if weakened nationally, per K&L Gates analysis. Amendments to the Workplace Transparency Act curb nondisclosure agreements on harassment claims, while new rules ban AI discrimination in hiring under the Illinois Human Rights Act, as noted by Illinois Legal Aid Online.

Business and economy show promise with suburban developments like a $360 million Rockford casino opening mid-year, L.L. Bean in Naperville, and The Fresh Market expansions, according to Daily Herald. The state expanded STAR bonds statewide to fund projects creating 300 jobs and $30 million investments, aiming to lure growth without displacing businesses, per STLPR. Employment laws enhance paid breaks for nursing mothers and leave rights.

Rebuild Illinois has invested over $2.2 billion in roads, bridges, and schools this fiscal year via the $45 billion plan, states the Illinois Comptroller. Community efforts include anti-squatter police powers and coercive debt protections. No major recent weather events reported.

Looking Ahead: Watch for casino openings, STAR bond applications by June 2026, and court challenges to gun laws. Local infrastructure goals ramp up in towns statewide.

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Illinois rings in 2026 with over 250 new laws taking effect, headlining reforms in public safety and healthcare. WAND-TV reports police departments must now review all past employment records before hiring officers, a measure honoring Sonya Massey to prevent tragedies. FOX 32 Chicago notes the Safe Gun Storage Act requires owners to report stolen firearms within 48 hours, though Republicans like Rep. CD Davidsmeyer predict court challenges. Other key changes include protections for the Mahomet Aquifer against carbon leaks, as Sen. Chapin Rose emphasized its role as the sole water source for 800,000 Central Illinois residents, and expanded SNAP benefits for veterans per Senate Bill 32.

In government and politics, the state legislature wrapped 2025 with these measures, while local decisions advance infrastructure under the $45 billion Rebuild Illinois plan, with over $2.2 billion spent last fiscal year according to the Illinois Comptroller. Chicago gains funding for emergency vehicles from ambulance fees, ABC7 Chicago details. Business thrives with suburban booms: Daily Herald highlights a $360 million Waukegan casino opening mid-year, new L.L. Bean in Naperville, and grocers like Farmers Best Market expanding. FHLBank Chicago's $55 million subsidy boosts affordable housing and small businesses.

Community news shines in education, where Senate Bill 1920 mandates AI protocols in schools, and House Bill 3247 ensures enrollment regardless of immigration status, NCTV17 reports. Public safety improves with squatter removal laws and Anna’s Law for trauma-informed sexual assault training. No major recent weather events reported.

Looking Ahead, watch for the Illinois Quantum Park referendum in South Chicago, more Rebuild Illinois road projects, and budget debates over earmarks like $7 million to relocate University of Illinois pigs, per Illinois Policy Institute.

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Illinois enters 2026 with nearly 300 new laws taking effect January 1, reshaping daily life from schools to public safety. Governor JB Pritzker signed measures addressing healthcare access, worker protections, and immigration safeguards, according to Disparti Law Group. Top headlines include the elimination of the states 1 percent grocery tax, though over 650 municipalities have opted to impose their own, reports Capitol City Now. Schools gain enhanced protections under the Safe Schools for All Act, barring disclosure of students immigration status without legal mandate, and expanding cyberbullying definitions to cover AI deepfakes starting in the 2026-27 year, per Block Club Chicago and FOX Illinois. A squatter bill streamlines police removal of unlawful occupants, while the Safe Gun Storage Act mandates secure firearm storage and reporting of losses, noted ABC7 Chicago.

In government and politics, the legislature advances police accountability via the Sonya Massey Act, mandating thorough employment history reviews for hires, following a high-profile conviction, KHQA reports. Public safety boosts include statewide pursuit of online child exploitation under Alicias Law and expanded human trafficking victim services through SB 2323, as outlined by Senator Chesney. Business and economy see the shift to the Finnigan method for corporate tax reporting, projected to raise revenue from multinationals, alongside consumer wins like capped epinephrine costs at 60 dollars and pharmacist-dispensed contraceptives, Capitol City Now details. Employment news features paid breaks for nursing mothers and stronger workplace rights.

Community updates highlight education reforms allowing seventh and eighth graders high school credit for advanced courses, with AI guidance due by July from the State Board of Education, WICS reports. Infrastructure efforts include a University of Illinois Chicago study on DuSable Lake Shore Drive safety and Chicago funding for emergency vehicles from ambulance fees, ABC7 states. No major recent weather events reported.

Looking Ahead, watch for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park referendum in South Chicago, potentially the nations largest quantum hub, WTTW News notes, alongside Farmland Transition Commission recommendations and PFAS bans in firefighter gear by 2027.

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Illinois wrapped up 2025 on a high note with record economic achievements, including $13 billion in incentivized private investments that created nearly 3,000 new jobs and retained thousands more, according to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Governor JB Pritzker highlighted growth in quantum computing, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing, with milestones like the groundbreaking for PsiQuantum's facility at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on Chicago's South Side, as reported by IQMP officials. Notable business moves included Rivian's $120 million expansion in Normal creating 100 jobs and Pure Lithium Corporation relocating battery operations to Chicago.

In politics, over 300 new laws take effect January 1, 2026, covering mental health coverage for first responders without cost-sharing, bans on non-competes for mental health professionals serving veterans, and protections against medical debt reporting to credit agencies, per Disparti Law Group and Capitol News Illinois. The state ended its grocery tax and bolstered aquifer protections. Tensions with federal immigration enforcement, dubbed Operation Midway Blitz, sparked lawsuits and No Kings rallies, though activity slowed by December.

Infrastructure advanced under the Rebuild Illinois program, with $20.8 billion invested in highways, bridges, and trails, including completion of the Kennedy Expressway rehab and progress on Interstate 80, IDOT announced. Public safety saw pushes after a fiery CTA attack and local crimes like the Sheridan double homicide.

No major statewide weather events marred the year, though late December tornadoes hit parts of central Illinois on the 28th, per National Weather Service.

Looking Ahead: Watch for the $50.6 billion multi-year construction program starting 2026, quantum tech expansions at IQMP, and U.S. Senate races following Sen. Dick Durbin's retirement announcement. The legislative session resumes with focus on transit funding and energy reforms.

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Illinois is ending the year with major shifts in law, infrastructure, politics, and community life that listeners will feel at the checkout line, on the roads, and in local schools.

According to NPR Illinois, the state’s 1 percent grocery tax is set to end, while hundreds of municipalities and several counties have approved or are considering their own local grocery taxes, meaning many shoppers will still see a 1 percent charge on food even as the state rate drops.[3][2][6] Capitol City Now reports that this change is part of a broader package taking effect January 1 that also tightens corporate tax rules using the “Finnigan” method and is expected to raise hundreds of millions in new state revenue from large multistate companies.[6]

In government and politics, Capitol News Illinois notes that more than 300 laws are taking effect, including new paid time protections for parents with newborns in intensive care and expanded worker safeguards.[18][29] NPR Illinois reports new statutes allowing lawmakers and top prosecutors to shield personal information online and use campaign funds for security, a response to harassment and safety concerns.[3] St. Louis Public Radio highlights that Illinois Democrats, led by Governor JB Pritzker, spent much of the year clashing with the Trump administration over immigration enforcement in Chicago.[5] Democracy Now adds that the U.S. Supreme Court blocked Trump’s attempt to deploy National Guard troops to the Chicago area, siding with Illinois’ challenge.[1]

On the economic front, Capitol City Now points to the grocery tax shift and new corporate tax rules as key levers in the state’s fiscal strategy, while also noting new worker protections around AI in hiring and workplace transparency that businesses must now navigate.[6][29] The state’s Surplus to Success program, detailed by the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, is putting $300 million toward transforming unused state properties into job-creating developments.[15]

Infrastructure and community projects remain a bright spot. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Rebuild Illinois program has already delivered more than $20.8 billion in improvements to over 21,000 lane miles of highways and hundreds of bridges, with a record $50.6 billion multiyear program now scheduled through 2031.[4] That includes major work on Interstate 80 in Will County and the completion of a three-year, $169 million rehabilitation of Chicago’s Kennedy Expressway.[4] Local governments, like the city of Rochelle, are pairing state and local dollars to upgrade water systems, build new substations, and support small downtown businesses through new grant programs.[7]

Looking ahead, listeners should watch how the end of the state grocery tax, the rollout of new worker and education laws, debates over stadium and transit funding, and the next phases of Rebuild Illinois shape daily life and the 2026 political landscape across the state.[2][3][4][18]

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