Provision in ‘big, beautiful bill’ could ‘blunt’ pressure for lower IL taxes | Illinois

(The Center Square) – As Congress weighs the “big, beautiful bill,” a proposed hike to the state and local tax deduction cap is drawing fire for favoring taxpayers in high-tax states, like Illinois. Taxpayers who itemize can deduct up to $10,000 in state and local taxes from their federal taxes—a cap set by the 2017 […]
Pritzker slams ‘big ugly bill,’ warns of job losses, hospital closures | Illinois

(The Center Square) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker expresses deep concern over federal legislation cutting the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid, warning it will severely impact vulnerable Illinois residents. At an unrelated news conference Tuesday, Pritzker warned the so-called “big, beautiful bill” working through the U.S. Congress will severely impact vulnerable Illinois residents. The U.S. […]
IL taxpayers begin funding record-high budget with tax hikes July 1 | Illinois

(The Center Square) – Starting Tuesday, Illinois taxpayers will be funding the largest budget in state history. The $55.2 billion spending plan for fiscal year 2026 includes higher taxes on telecommunications, tobacco products, sports wagering and long-term rentals, along with corporate income tax rule changes which are expected to bring in more tax revenue from […]
2026 field may grow as gubernatorial hopefuls challenge Pritzker | Illinois

(The Center Square) – Three men had already announced campaigns for governor when J.B. Pritzker launched his bid for a third term last week, but the field of candidates is expected to grow. DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for governor in February. Lake Forest businessman and former 10th […]
GOP challenger: ‘Definition of insanity electing’ Pritzker again | Illinois

(The Center Square) – As Gov. J.B. Pritzker targets federal policies while starting his campaign for a third term in Illinois, a Republican challenger says Pritzker’s tax policies are regressive for Illinois. The governor started his reelection bid with six scheduled stops around the state. He called President Donald Trump a “megalomaniac narcissist” while speaking […]
Illinois quick hits: Chicago man convicting of supporting terrorists | Illinois

Chicago man convicting of supporting terrorists A 41-year-old Chicago man faces a maximum of 130 years in federal prison after being convicted of conspiring to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization. Federal prosecutors announced the conviction of Ashraf Al Safoo for using social media to encourage attacks on enemies of the Islamic State […]
WATCH: Pritzker dismisses Census data showing youth flight from Illinois | Illinois

(The Center Square) – After U.S. Census data shows the state losing the 18 and under population faster than any other state, Illinois political leaders have different solutions. Asked Thursday about the latest U.S. Census data released this week showing Illinois losing the 18 and under population at a faster rate than any other state, […]
Illinois quick hits: Fireworks warning; ongoing gun ban legal battle | Illinois

Fireworks warning Fireworks displays in Illinois must have the required state licenses and certifications before the Independence Day celebrations July 4. The Illinois State Fire Marshal and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources put that reminder out ahead of the holiday. Anyone violating the law could face a Class 3 felony, with a maximum penalty […]
Businesses face legal, regulatory challenges in lawsuit-heavy Illinois | Illinois

(The Center Square) – An advocate for the Illinois business community says lawsuit-challenged legislation approved by the General Assembly could cost the state dearly. Republican lawmakers cited Senate Bill 328 when they alleged that the Democratic supermajority short-circuits the legislature’s three-readings rule by gutting bill language and replacing it just before passage. State Rep. Travis […]
Illinois quick hits: Mendoza to host weekly financial podcasts | Illinois

Reaction to Monday’s attack Members of Illinois’ congressional delegation continue to keep an eye on conflict in the Middle East after Iran retaliated by attempting to strike U.S. targets in Qatar. Illinois U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson said he’s grateful no lives were lost and to “Let peace be our priority.” Sen. Dick Durbin criticized President […]