One-third of Illinois’ March layoffs hit Chicago security firm
One-third of Illinois’ March layoffs hit Chicago security firm
Illinois companies announced 947 mass layoffs in March. All but 21 of the job cuts were permanent.
Tax Day: Here’s how your $4K in state income taxes is spent
Tax Day: Here’s how your $4K in state income taxes is spent
Just over 5% of the average state income tax return supports economic development and public safety, while almost 28% goes to government worker pensions and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of how Illinois will spend your state income taxes.
Chicago Teachers Union contract bumps average teacher from $86K to over $114K
Chicago Teachers Union contract bumps average teacher from $86K to over $114K
The average Chicago Public Schools teacher will see their salary increase to more than $114,000 by the 2027-2028 school year. Just the raises will cost Chicagoans up to $1.25 billion.
Banning credit checks won’t help Illinois’ poor get housing
Banning credit checks won’t help Illinois’ poor get housing
Illinois state lawmakers are trying to ban landlords from using credit histories to judge potential tenants. Doing so could make it harder for low-income tenants to find housing.
‘Homeschool Act’ creates serious legal problems, violates parents’ rights
‘Homeschool Act’ creates serious legal problems, violates parents’ rights
House Bill 2827 would extensively regulate both homeschools and private schools in ways that could seriously violate Illinoisans’ rights, including a primary right established a century ago.
Illinois Federation of Teachers underfunds teachers, props up own officers
Illinois Federation of Teachers underfunds teachers, props up own officers
The Illinois Federation of Teachers represents educators in 200 districts in Illinois. But just 26% of its spending in 2024 was on “representational activities” – what should be its core focus.
Illinois’ February unemployment rate 5th highest in U.S.
Illinois’ February unemployment rate 5th highest in U.S.
Unemployment in Illinois remains stubbornly high. February’s unemployment rate was the fifth highest in the nation at 4.8%.
Aziza Butler
Aziza Butler
“As a mother, teacher and support for homeschooling families, this overactive government intervention pains my heart.”
‘Homeschool Act’ changes create more problems, could traumatize kids
‘Homeschool Act’ changes create more problems, could traumatize kids
Bill sponsors for a second time amended the ‘Homeschool Act’ as they tried to blunt the heavy criticism of the constitutional, parenting and privacy rights it could trample. Illinois Policy expert testimony showed the changes create more problems with the bill.
Illinois might revive back-to-school sales tax holiday
Illinois might revive back-to-school sales tax holiday
Illinois lawmakers are looking at a bill that would cut sales taxes during back-to-school shopping. Illinois hasn’t had a sales tax holiday in years. The bill would lower the state sales tax from 6.25% to 1.25% on clothes and school supplies for six days in August 2025.
Survey: Homeschooled students face less abuse. So why are Illinois lawmakers targeting families?
Survey: Homeschooled students face less abuse. So why are Illinois lawmakers targeting families?
The “Homeschool Act” adds taxpayer costs and exposes families’ religion and private information – all in the name of curbing child neglect and abuse. Trouble is, a survey showed state lawmakers are targeting the students where they are least at risk.
Illinois close to ending strict hair braiding requirements
Illinois close to ending strict hair braiding requirements
Hair braiders across Illinois may face fewer restrictions on their trade. The Illinois House unanimously passed a bill changing the state’s hair braiding laws.
Illinois looks at adding more granny houses to boost affordability
Illinois looks at adding more granny houses to boost affordability
House Bill 1813 would prevent municipalities from prohibiting the construction of accessory dwelling units such as granny houses or basement apartments, allowing more opportunity for naturally affordable housing solutions.
Illinois lawmakers get chance to boost affordable family housing
Illinois lawmakers get chance to boost affordable family housing
Illinois House Bill 1814 would legalize more affordable options such as duplexes and townhomes for working families. If the bill passes, it will mark a win for affordability and housing choice.