Op-Ed Duncan: More work to be done for increased trade
By BRIAN DUNCAN Illinois Farm Bureau Illinois Farm Bureau has long championed new and diverse market opportunities while fighting to eliminate trade barriers that hinder the agricultural economy of Illinois and the nation. Illinois farmers rely on access to foreign markets to sell their products — from corn, soybeans, ethanol, beef, pork and more. With…
Read MoreIntoxicating hemp remains unregulated in Illinois following legislative inaction
Regulatory attempts have failed despite Pritzker’s backing, although feds could intervene By ISABELLA SCHOONOVER, SIMON CARR and Medill Illinois News Bureau, Capitol News Illinois Article Summary Industrial hemp production was legalized in the U.S. and in Illinois in 2018. The industry was largely expected to produce items like industrial textiles and non-intoxicating CBD products. Since…
Read MoreHaine announces guilty verdict in trial of man who attacked hospital security guard
Edwardsville, IL — Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine announced today that a jury has found a 51-year-old St. Louis man guilty of felony aggravated battery for an attack on a hospital security guard. Jurors deliberated about 30 minutes Tuesday afternoon before finding Chantel D. Stanciel guilty. The charge stemmed from an Oct. 9, 2022,…
Read MoreIDFPR launches 24 additional license types to new licensing system
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) has announced that 24 more professions are now available for licensure via the Department’s new online licensing system, CORE (Comprehensive Online Regulatory Environment). This announcement marks the successful completion of CORE’s Phase 2.3, with the final part of Phase 2 set for completion this summer. The…
Read MoreApproved megabill provides tax certainty for farmers
By TAMMIE SLOUP FarmWeek The recently signed federal budget reconciliation bill includes key safety net and tax provisions that help farmers, but the legislation doesn’t replace a comprehensive five-year farm bill. President Donald Trump signed the nearly 900-page bill into law on July 4. Hundreds of provisions are included in the legislation, including updates…
Read MoreArmy Corps of Engineers announces temporary closure of Lincoln Shields Recreation Area
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rivers Project Office, will temporarily close Lincoln Shields Recreation Area beginning at 6 a.m. Friday July 18, 2025, for the F1 Powerboat Alton Midwest Nationals taking place over the upcoming weekend. The Lincoln Shields Access Area will re-open at 7 a.m. on Monday, July 20. For more information, contact…
Read MoreMRWTA receives national award from Army Corps of Engineers
Annually, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers selects a single partner to bestow the national Excellence in Partnership (EIP) Award. The EIP Award recognizes exceptional contributions by a partner supporting the recreation and environmental stewardship programs within the Corps of Engineers. At the Audubon Center at Riverlands annual “Ahhh-dubon” event on July 3, the award…
Read MoreSWIC’s Granite City campus launches new open house-style event on Aug. 6
A new open house-style event at the Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) Sam Wolf Granite City Campus (SWGCC) has been scheduled from 4 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, known as “SWGCC Campus Connect.” The free event is open to anyone wanting to learn more about academic programs, campus resources, or enroll in classes.…
Read MoreIDOL publishes 2025 prevailing wage rates across Illinois
Annual update reinforces commitment to fair wages and a competitive construction industry The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has released the 2025 prevailing wage rates for construction trades for all counties in the State. The updated rates, which took effect Tuesday, July 15, 2025, are the result of IDOL’s annual statewide survey conducted under the…
Read MoreIllinois bet on solar to meet its climate goals. Trump has the industry in his crosshairs.
Advocates push state to expand renewables incentives By ANDREW ADAMS Capitol News Illinois Article Summary Congress’ latest budget package slashed federal tax incentives for solar developments. Industry insiders said the latest federal policies create “a lot of uncertainty.” Illinois facilitates significant funding for the renewables industry, particularly for solar, which provides some insulation against…
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