News

Illinois sees rise in payrolls but also higher unemployment rate

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) reported an increase in nonfarm payrolls by 800 jobs in August, while the unemployment rate rose by 0.1 percentage point to 5.3 percent. This data, based on preliminary figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), also included a revision for July's job growth from an initial estimate of 12,900 to 10,300 jobs.

IDNR announces nearly $1 million in grants for natural area stewardship

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced nearly $1 million in grants to support 14 stewardship programs managed by land trusts on land protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC). These grants are part of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant program, which aims to enhance land and water stewardship activities in natural areas permanently protected within the INPC system. The program addresses the growing stewardship needs of natural areas throughout Illinois by funding projects that help land trusts expand staff and purchase...

Illinois sees slight rise in unemployment despite job gains

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that nonfarm payrolls increased by 800 jobs, while the unemployment rate rose by 0.1 percentage point to 5.3 percent in August. This data is based on preliminary figures provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The July payroll change was revised from an initial report of 12,900 jobs to 10,300 jobs, with the unemployment rate remaining at 5.2 percent.

Chicago increases prepaid wireless E911 surcharge to 9% starting November

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

Effective November 1, 2024, the Prepaid Wireless E911 Surcharge rate imposed in the city of Chicago on sales of prepaid wireless telecommunications service will increase from zero percent (.00) to nine percent (.09).

Cannabis sales show steady growth in July and August 2024

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

Adult use cannabis sales figures for July and August 2024 have been released, showing continued strong performance in the market.

Illinois agencies launch campaign against unlicensed dentistry

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 19, 2024

In response to a troubling rise in reported unlicensed dental practices across the state, the Illinois State Dental Society (ISDS) and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulations (IDFPR) have launched a collaborative campaign urging the public to seek dental care only from licensed dentists.

Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission Human Rights Authority East Central Region met Sept. 17

By Corazon L. Gonzales | Sep 18, 2024

Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission Human Rights Authority East Central Region met Tuesday, Sept. 17

North Chicago Community Unit School District #187 Independent Authority and the Financial Oversight Panel met Sept. 17

By Philip Gonzales | Sep 18, 2024

North Chicago Community Unit School District #187 Independent Authority and the Financial Oversight Panel met Tuesday, Sept. 17

Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board met Sept. 18

By Philip Gonzales | Sep 18, 2024

Illinois Educational Labor Relations Board met Wednesday, Sept. 18

Jeanne Ives: 'Another assassination attempt on Trump'

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 18, 2024

Jeanne Ives reacted to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, stating, "More questions for the Secret Service who haven't answered all the questions from the Butler, PA attempt." She made this statement in a September 15 post on X.

Illinois State Board of Education met Aug. 14

By Philip Gonzales | Sep 18, 2024

Illinois State Board of Education met Wednesday, Aug. 14

Illinois reports progress in tackling teacher shortage with $45M investment

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 18, 2024

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and the Illinois Workforce and Education Research Collaborative (IWERC) have released early results from a $45 million state investment aimed at improving recruitment and retention in some of the...

Illinois State Board of Education Assessment and Accountability Technical Advisory Committee met Sept. 17 & 18

By Philip Gonzales | Sep 17, 2024

Illinois State Board of Education Assessment and Accountability Technical Advisory Committee met Sept. 17 & 18

Illinois State Board of Elections met Sept. 17

By Philip Gonzales | Sep 17, 2024

Illinois State Board of Elections met Tuesday, Sept. 17

Comptroller Mendoza launches annual charity drive with Mr. T as honorary chair

By Prairie State Wire | Sep 17, 2024

The annual State and University Employees Combined Appeal (SECA) campaign has commenced, announced Comptroller Susana Mendoza. The theme for this year is "Do Good, Feel Good," emphasizing the positive impact of charitable giving. SECA includes over 1,600 local, state, and national charities. This year, Mr. T serves as the Honorary Chair.