Area News

Fighting to restore affordability for Illinois households, State Rep. Katie Stuart (D-Edwardsville) has advanced a series of bills to the governor’s desk cutting costs on everyday purchases and utilities, banning gimmicks that raise prices, and requiring businesses to fairly compensate consumers. “The costs of our basic needs, from utilities to groceries, are ridiculously expensive. I’ve…

The Illinois Retail Merchants Association (IRMA) has announced the winners of the inaugural Illinois Retail Challenge Scholarship Competition during a special awards luncheon held on May 20 at the Governor’s Mansion and attended by Gov. JB Pritzker. The event brought together student finalists, retail industry leaders, and elected officials to recognize the next generation of…

State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure designed to remove unfair barriers to employment for people living with disabilities. “People living with disabilities deserve the same opportunity to work, build a career and live with dignity as anyone else,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “They should not be denied opportunities because of outdated hiring practices that fail…

Company adds manufacturing capacity and dozens of new jobs to southern Illinois On May 20, 2026, Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), and Intermountain Electronics announced the company will invest more than $15 million to expand their operations by adding more than 108,000 square feet of manufacturing space while…

State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure that would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500. “For many Illinois residents, cash remains a dependable and necessary way to pay for everyday purchases,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “People deserve the freedom to choose how they pay.” Belt’s measure would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments…

FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – In celebration of Memorial Day and the nation’s upcoming 250th birthday, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois and U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft will recognize Robert “Bob” Gill, 99, from Jerseyville, for his extensive service to our country. Gill has been named as the recipient of…

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) has pledged to donate the legislative pay raise he voted against to different local organizations throughout his district to help families in need. This month, he donated a variety of essential items including toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, cereal, pancake mix, syrup, and canned chicken to the food pantry at Zion…