Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs highlights the growth of the Bright Start 529 college savings plan, which now exceeds $14 billion in assets during its 25th anniversary.

IDFPR received the 2025 Regulatory Excellence Award from CLEAR for innovative regulation and service improvements in licensing for Illinois professionals.

Rep. Lauren Underwood is concerned about the lack of public safety data justifying ICE's "Operation Midway Blitz" in Illinois and the transparency regarding sanctuary jurisdictions. She offers assistance to those impacted.

The McHenry County Sheriff's Office received the ACE award for excellence in emergency medical dispatching, recognizing their adherence to high standards and professional call handling.

Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native, celebrated his 70th birthday with a Portillo's Famous Chocolate Cake provided by the U.S. Ambassador, amidst festivities in both the Vatican and his hometown.

Chicago anticipates traffic disruptions and potential street closures downtown for Mexican Independence Day celebrations, considering emergency vehicle access and resident navigation amid heightened immigration enforcement concerns.

Illinois introduces a new license for internationally trained physicians, allowing them to practice under supervision and improve healthcare workforce diversity.

IDNR is offering agricultural leases via sealed bidding to support wildlife and recreation, requiring registration on BidBuy. The leases promote sustainable farming practices.

The nation marks the 24th anniversary of 9/11 with ceremonies and tributes, including moments of silence and name readings. Increased security followed activist's assassination.

Trump and AG Bondi discussed religious liberty in US education at a Religious Liberty Commission forum; personal testimonies highlighted struggles with religious expression in schools.

Illinois CMS partners with the Chicago White Sox and universities to promote state job opportunities to sports fans and students at events and online.

Chicago dismantled a homeless encampment at Legion Park due to safety concerns after multiple fires, with some residents accepting shelter offers and others declining.

Two Illinois residents won $1 million each in the Powerball lottery, with tickets sold at a Skokie Citgo station and through the Illinois app. Other state residents won smaller prizes.