State Representative Ryan Spain is organizing his annual Holiday Diaper Drive, culminating in a Drive-Thru Donation event on December 11. Spain encourages donations of diapers, baby wipes, and diaper cream to support families in need. "Nearly 1 in 2 families in the U.S. struggle to afford diapers," said Spain. Donations can be dropped off or shipped to Rep. Spain’s Peoria office until December 11.
Spain was also recently recognized with the Illinois Farm Bureau's Friend of Agriculture Award for his support of agriculture in Illinois. "Agriculture is a leading economic engine in Illinois, generating more than $51 billion in economic activity annually," he stated.
In legal news, former Speaker Michael J. Madigan faces allegations of using political power for personal gain through a Chicago law firm he controlled. Evidence includes wiretaps and video recordings involving Madigan and former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis.
Illinois' income tax receipts showed stagnation and decline as reported by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (CGFA). This pattern adds pressure on state agencies to maintain a balanced budget amid a projected deficit for Fiscal Year 2026.
The Seventh Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled that Illinois’ gun ban will remain effective while legal proceedings continue. The ban covers over 170 semi-automatic firearms and certain magazines.
Lion Electric's school bus assembly plant near Joliet has shut down due to financial difficulties after initial enthusiasm for battery-powered buses waned among buyers.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources reported an increase in deer tags during the first weekend of firearm deer season compared to last year.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (DFPR) announced progress on modernizing its professional licensing system following legislative pressure led by House Republicans. The new CORE system aims to streamline licensure processes digitally over two years.