(SPRINGFIELD) Advocates for Illinois communities are expressing opposition to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s planned reduction of the state’s revenue distribution rate to local governments. The Governor’s budget proposal cuts the Local Government Distributive Fund formula from 6.47% to 6.28% of individual income tax revenues. The Illinois Municipal League says lowering the rate would keep the expected dollar amounts for local government flat for the next fiscal year.
(SPRINGFIELD) Upstate lawmakers are pushing for legislation that would require school districts to provide all eligible students graduating from high school with the opportunity to register to vote. If approved this spring, House Bill 4339 would take effect in time for the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Proponents of the plan say it help students to become more involved in civic action. Those opposed say it will only lead to political recruitment for votes.
(CHICAGO) Fox 32 TV is reporting that Chicago Park District officials are pitching state lawmakers to include money from the state’s road fund to help with infrastructure work at Soldier Field. A new proposal would use $630 million to help transform the venue into a concert and special event facility. While the Chicago Bears are looking to build a new stadium, the NFL team will owe nearly $90 million to the Park District if they break their lease before 2033.
(SPRINGFIELD) The first practice date of the 2026 Illinois High School Association football season is moving up to August 5th. The IHSA has announced that member schools approved a special by-law proposal by a margin of 290 in favor, 245 opposed, and 67 with no opinion. In addition, statewide high school football players will be required to complete twelve (12) days of on-field practices before they are eligible to compete in their first game of that season.