(SPRINGFIELD) Broccoli packages sold at Walmart stores in 20 states, including Illinois, received an elevated recall status over a listeria contamination that could potentially be fatal. The possible contamination of broccoli packaged and distributed by the Braga Fresh Company was discovered during random sampling in Texas. According to the FDA, there have, so far, not been any reported illnesses connected to the recalled broccoli.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Public Health has awarded $4.5 million to 12 groups across the state, funded through the 2024 Birth Equity Initiative. Ranging from $100,000 to $700,000, the grants are designed to support innovative, community-based efforts that have the potential to reduce inequities in populations historically at higher risk for adverse birth outcomes. One downstate recipient was CHOICES, a Carbondale agency.
(SPRINGFIELD) Some 9,000 Illinois residents could receive a chunk of a $106 million, multi-state settlement with mutual fund and retirement investor company Vanguard. According to the agreement, the Pennsylvania based investment company failed to disclose potential tax consequences to users, which led to higher capital gains taxes for investors. The state says those impacted by the move will be compensated through a fair fund program.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Community College Board has provided more than $3.6 million to 32 Illinois Community Colleges to support student mental health in 2025. These funds will introduce new services, augment existing practices, and target service gaps to help meet the mental health needs of thousands of students on campuses across the state. The list of recipients includes some downstate colleges, including Rend Lake, Kaskaskia, Lake Land, Southwestern Illinois, Parkland, Lincoln Land, and Highland.