Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker and Illinois State Fair officials unveiled the Butter Cow today in the Dairy Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds. Inspired by "It's Showtime!" the 2024 fair theme, sculptor Sarah Pratt's creation captures the magic of the fair through the eyes of a child.

Illinois DCFS invites families to 2024 state fair; promotes fostering

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) will have a prominent presence at the 2024 Illinois State Fair, where they aim to engage with families and provide information about their various programs and services.

OSFM announces $4 million funding for small equipment grant program

The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has announced that applications are now open for the Small Equipment Grant Program. A total of $4 million will be awarded to eligible fire departments and ambulance services for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. Applications must be submitted electronically or postmarked by October 1, 2024.

Illinois boosts climate smart agriculture with US EPA grant

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA), in collaboration with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), has announced a $111 million investment in the agricultural sector through a U.S. EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. This initiative aims to support farmers in making sustainable and long-term decisions for their operations. The U.S. EPA had previously announced the full grant, totaling over $430 million over five years.

Illinois State Fair announces theme days for 2024

The Illinois State Fair has announced its theme and discount days for 2024. The event will commence on Thursday, August 8, with County Fairs and Horse Racing Day. Gates will open at 7 a.m., offering a full day of horse racing, county fair celebrations, free entertainment, $3 carnival rides, traditional fair food, kick-off activities, and the annual Twilight Parade.

IDNR seeks public input on new round of mine reclamation projects

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is currently accepting public comments until September 20 regarding the abandoned mine lands reclamation projects selected for work under President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

Illinois announces $9 million investment in new digital licensure process

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced plans to modernize its professional licensing system for individuals in Illinois. The new digital licensure process will be developed in partnership with NIC Licensing Solutions, LLC, a leading provider of digital government services.

Illinois Department of Labor to discuss amusement ride safety at State Fair

The Illinois Department of Labor's Carnival Manager, Brian Fox, will discuss amusement ride safety at the State Fair. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. It will take place at the Illinois State Fairgrounds Midway located at 801 Sangamon Avenue, Springfield, IL 62706.

Illinois announces $9 million investment in new digital licensure process

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) announced today plans to secure a new professional licensing system for individuals whose careers require a license to work in Illinois. This initiative is part of efforts to modernize outdated processes.

Chicago reduces prepaid wireless E911 surcharge rate to zero percent

Effective August 5, 2024, the Prepaid Wireless E911 Surcharge rate imposed on sales of prepaid wireless telecommunications service within the city of Chicago decreased from three percent to zero percent.

IDPH to offer health services at Illinois State Fair

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will offer a range of public health information and services at various locations during the Illinois State Fair, scheduled for August 8-18, 2024, in Springfield.

From DuPage Policy Journal

DeVore, Del Mar featured speakers at 'Concerned Parents' fundraiser

By DuPage Policy Journal | 10 months ago

A downstate attorney who successfully argued for the end of mandatory masking in Illinois public schools will be a featured speaker at a "Concerned Parents Illinois" fundraiser next month.

Illinois State Fair hosts Veterans and Gold Star Families Day on August 11

The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA), the Illinois Department of Agriculture, and the Illinois State Fair invite veterans and their family members to enjoy a free day at the Illinois State Fair on Sunday, August 11, 2024. This annual event offers programs, music, and a resource fair. The event concludes with a parade led by Governor JB Pritzker, IDVA Director Terry Prince, along with veterans' organizations, JROTC teams, and IDVA staff. This year's theme is "Serving the Generations."

Illinois boosts school funds by $1.8B under Pritzker administration

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has released data detailing the impact of a $1.8 billion increase in education funding for the state's highest-need schools under the Pritzker Administration.

Who made the biggest political contributions in Illinois during week ending June 15?

The top 100 political contributions made during the week ending June 15 found here.

Top campaign contribution recipients in Illinois as of week ending Aug. 3