High courts in Wisconsin and Michigan have both ruled governors cannot repeatedly issue disaster declarations as a basis for mask mandates and other orders without legislative approval. A year into the pandemic, Illinois’ governor is still doing it.
Up to 140,000 able-bodied Illinoisans may need jobs to get food stamps in 2020
Just Cook County food stamp recipients were facing work requirements Jan. 1 if they were under age 50, able-bodied and had no dependents. Now the rules will apply throughout Illinois starting April 1.
Illinois bill would slow transition from lawmaker to lobbyist
Most states require a wait before lawmakers become lobbyists. Recent federal probes point out the need for Illinois to do the same.
Michigan becomes latest Illinois neighbor to repeal prevailing wage mandate
Michigan nixed a law mandating inflated wages for public construction projects. The Prairie State should follow suit.
Foxconn to open new plant in Michigan
The announcement comes on the heels of the manufacturing giant’s decision to invest in Wisconsin.
Michigan introduces 401(k)-style plan for teachers
With the successful passage of 401(k)-style pension reform in Michigan’s state legislature, Illinois lawmakers should examine their own growing pension crisis and pursue bolder reforms to stabilize the state’s finances.
Illinois’ neighboring states boast better credit ratings, economies
Illinois’ credit rating spirals downward while residents flee to surrounding states with stronger economies and lower taxes.
Michigan reforms to retiree benefits upheld in 6-0 state Supreme Court decision
Illinois lawmakers now have at least one model on which to base necessary reforms.
Blue steel: Illinois’ manufacturing exodus continues
Workers’ compensation costs are killing Illinois steel.
Manufacturing employment in Illinois has stagnated and even shrunk while Indiana and Michigan have boomed
Manufacturing employment in Illinois has stagnated and even shrunk while Indiana and Michigan – neighboring Right-to-Work states – have boomed.