(SPRINGFIELD) Illinois lawmakers have introduced legislation that would allow high school students to take career technical education classes instead of foreign language instruction. Senate Bill 3070 would provide the CTE alternative starting in the 2028-2029 school year. The Technology & Manufacturing Association says the foreign language mandate taking effect in 2027 would limit the availability for students to take CTE classes, especially in rural areas.
(SPRINGFIELD) Upstate lawmakers have introduced legislation that would provide guaranteed income for new and expectant mothers on Medicaid. House Bill 5238 would provide cash disbursements starting as soon as July 1st, 2026. Those taking part would receive a $1,500 lump sum payment in or around the third trimester of pregnancy, plus $500 monthly cash payments for the first six months after delivery. Some lawmakers say it’s more taxpayer money out the door.
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) Illinois U.S. Representative Mary Miller has introduced legislation in our nation’s capitol that she says will protect children from being exposed to explicit material in the classroom. The Coles County farmer says the Stop the Sexualization of Children Act would prohibit the use of funds at schools that promote any activity that includes sexually-oriented material, while preserving the instruction in science, literature, art, and world religions.
(CHICAGO) Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker says $21 million in state capital funds will unlock more than $83 million in private investment to restore a historic hotel area in the Pullman State Historic Site on Chicago’s South Side. The public-private partnership will redevelop the 1881 Hotel Florence, Pullman Car Works building, and surrounding grounds into a boutique hotel, dining destination, cultural & performing arts hub, and much more.