Illinois residents will see premium hikes and many are expected to drop coverage due to the ending of enhanced tax credits, which is part of a federal budget change included in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” of 2021.
State-based health insurance marketplace opens amid federal budget stalemate
Giannoulias’ office accepting John Lewis Youth Leadership Award Nominations
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is accepting applications for the 2025 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award, which recognizes young Illinoisans between the ages of 18-25 who have made exceptional civic contributions to their communities in the spirit of the late Congressman and Civil Rights icon.
Pace’s proposed 2026 budget maintains current suburban service; includes 10% fare increase
Pace’s proposed 2026 budget maintains current suburban fixed route service levels and includes a 10% average fare increase, as well as a hiring freeze and other administrative expense reductions, to balance the budget.
Foster to donate paycheck to Northern Illinois Food Bank during shutdown
Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) will donate his Congressional pay earned during the government shutdown to the Northern Illinois Food Bank to help protect vulnerable families and reopen the government.
Will Social Security’s 2026 COLA offset rising everyday costs?
The 2026 Social Security Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) has been delayed due to the federal government shutdown, and many retirees are struggling to make ends meet with the current benefit levels, which are insufficient to cover living expenses in most states.
Love & Protect Wisdom Launches Citywide Campaign to Support Domestic Violence Survivors
Love & Protect Wisdom is hosting its annual citywide campaign, “Towers Over Domestic Violence,” from October 20 to October 26, featuring iconic landmarks illuminated in purple, a fundraiser, fashion show, fitness classes, and more to raise awareness and provide resources for survivors.
Private data tells the story Jobs are disappearing
Private firms have stepped in to fill the void left by the federal government shutdown, providing independent analyses that show the country losing jobs and faith, while the administration has refused to guarantee back pay to furloughed workers, further exacerbating the economic and moral decline.
Joliet City Square artist to share inspiration of new sculpture with residents
The City of Joliet is hosting community workshops to discuss the creative process behind the City Square sculpture, Unity Dome, and to allow residents to ask questions about the project.
Report offers mixed review of educational progress in Illinois
Despite billions of dollars in additional spending on K-12 education, proficiency rates in reading, writing and math have stagnated in Illinois, while overall educational attainment has improved.
Love & Protect Wisdom launches “Towers Over Domestic Violence” campaign during Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Love & Protect Wisdom (LPW) is hosting its annual citywide campaign, “Towers Over Domestic Violence,” from October 20 to October 26, featuring events and initiatives to raise awareness, provide resources for survivors, and light up iconic landmarks in purple.

