Chicago’s 2026–2031 plan ties prevention to permanent housing and sets 22 goals across seven focus areas.

Jimmy Clayton, 40, was named president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, becoming the youngest person to lead the statewide business group. Members and lawmakers will watch his early policy moves closely.

Advocates gathered at Rainbow PUSH to press the RACE Act (HB 5414), which would restore voting rights to people serving felony sentences and expand prison civics.

Mayor Brandon Johnson is advancing a $500K Reparations Task Force while Chicago faces a near‑$1B budget gap. The plan raises tough questions about funding and legal risk.

Thousands lined Randall Road and Kimball & Grove on Saturday as local No Kings protests joined a nationwide day of action, with banners, horns and red knit hats. The roadside rallies mixed local grievances with a coordinated national push.

A new Illinois bill would let renters plug small 'balcony' solar kits into household outlets and limits landlord and HOA bans while keeping technical safeguards. Lawmakers say the change would widen access to clean energy for apartment residents.

Illinois senators approved resolutions to swap Cesar Chávez Day for Farmworkers Day and to honor Dolores Huerta, moves tied to national reporting that has reshaped the debate.

Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar introduced the Home Team Act on Thursday, giving cities a year to buy pro teams at fair market value before relocation. The measure is pitched as a way to keep the Chicago Bears in town and curb costly public-subsidy deals.

Rep. Sean Casten warned troop deployments to the Middle East risk widening the Iran conflict and urged Congress to demand briefings and oversight. His comments come as new Marine units head to the region.

Minooka's village board approved an immediate ban on retail kratom sales, citing public‑health concerns. The move comes as other Illinois towns and counties restrict the product.

Mayor Brandon Johnson joined city officials to unveil a snowplow named 'Abolish ICE' after a record-turnout naming contest. The pick has amplified an ongoing local debate over federal immigration enforcement.

Local clergy and faith groups will gather at Grant Park this Saturday for a No Kings rally featuring music, a march and resources for peaceful protest.

North Shore School District 112's finance chief Jeremy Davis will resign June 30 amid fallout from a state‑ordered reversal of a Quest meal contract. The district has posted a new RFP as the process continues.