(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Public Health says the latest data continues to show the spread of respiratory viruses is dropping in Illinois. The state’s overall respiratory illness level dropped from low to minimal in the most recent available CDC data and the state is also now at a low level for COVID-19 hospitalizations at the end of January.
(SPRINGFIELD) Several lawmakers want to put an end to the flood of lawsuits against businesses around the state as the result of Illinois’ strict biometric law. If approved, Senate Bill 2979 would make changes to the liability guidelines in the BIPA, which now requires private entities to obtain written consent before collecting and storing biometric information, such as an employee’s fingerprint. The bill would limit the number of claims accrued, plus it would modernize the manner in which consent can be granted.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Employment Security has announced that tax forms are now available for claimants who received unemployment insurance benefits in 2023. Those who collected benefits last year need the 1099-G tax form to complete their state and federal tax returns. Those who opted not to get their 1099-G tax form electronically will receive a hard copy paper form via regular mail at the address on file.
(CHICAGO) Federal agents are making an effort to break up a multi-billion industry of smugglers and looters who are attempting to profit from other the cultural heritage of other countries. Chicago’s Homeland Security investigators recently displayed 13 artifacts from El Salvador that were shipped to Florida and bound for Illinois. Some of the historic artifacts will be sent back to El Salvador and could potentially end up in various museums.