Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

States on the move: 401(k)-style pension reform in Utah

Utah’s pension funds had a 50 percent chance of becoming insolvent by 2028 prior to the state’s reform plan. The chance dropped to 10 percent after the state greatly improved the solvency of its pension funds with 401(k)-style reforms.

By Benjamin VanMetre

Why Illinois should forgo state-based health exchange

A new Illinois Policy Institute report lays out the many reasons why a state-based exchange is not only unnecessary, but also harmful to the state.

By Naomi Lopez Bauman

4 Illinois municipalities earn Sunshine award, multiple municipalities fail government transparency audit

Wilmette is a fantastic example of a community going above and beyond to promote online transparency for citizens.

By Brian Costin

Quote of the day, November 19

Proposed law would force parents to attend union-led ‘training’

Union recruiters have been relentless in making sure that caregivers get to hear the union’s pitch.

By Paul Kersey

Budgeting for tax relief: Rauner’s balancing act begins with fiscal year 2015

Fiscal year 2015 will be a key to future budget success. Is the governor-elect up to the task?

By Robert Steere

Quote of the day, November 18

Illinois’ pension debt balloons to $111 billion

With a mere 39 cents on hand for every dollar needed to pay for future benefits, the state would need a three-year government shutdown just to break even.

By Benjamin VanMetre