State News

By MELISSA CROCKETT MESKE Managing Editor, Illinois Business Journal [email protected] Millions of students want more than just a high school diploma; they want the skills, experiences, and credentials required for their future careers. Last fall, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and College Board announced their collaboration to bring new career-focused courses into high school classrooms…

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced the closure of Cook Street between Greenwood Lane and the midpoint of the main entrance to the Evangelical United Church of Christ beginning today, Tuesday, May 26, weather permitting, for road reconstruction. During the closure, access to the Evangelical United Church of Christ will be maintained from Pierce…

The Innovators Educational Foundation’s 2026 Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC) has been officially designated a Route 66 Centennial Project. The 2026 Electrek Formula Sun Grand Prix (FSGP) and the Electrek American Solar Challenge (ASC) will bring together collegiate teams from across the United States and around the world to design, build, and compete with their…

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced ramp and lane closures at the Interstate 64 and Illinois 159 interchange in St. Clair County for ramp maintenance work. Starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 26, the following ramps will close: Southbound Illinois 159 to westbound I-64 Northbound Illinois 159 to westbound I-64 Westbound I-64 to Illinois…

State Senator Erica Harriss (R-56th-Glen Carbon) and State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-114th-Millstadt) have announced the passage of two bills focused on government transparency and supporting Illinois veterans. House Bill 2137 requires local governments that already maintain a public website to post information directing residents to where audit and financial reports can be accessed through the…

Commission launched to support older Illinoisans and caregivers; Illinois to seek AARP “Age Friendly” state status On May 20, 2026, Governor JB Pritzker signed Executive Order 2026-05, officially establishing the EngAging Illinois Multisector Plan for Aging Commission. The Commission will implement the state’s landmark Multisector Plan for Aging, a 10-year blueprint to address the needs of…

U.S. Representative Mike Bost (R-IL-12) has announced that Congress approved a Department of Veterans Affairs budget request of $1.6 billion to modernize the John Cochran Veterans Hospital in St. Louis. The VA funding bill, which is expected to be signed into law by President Trump, provides for construction of a new bed tower, mental health…

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…