Third Reading Report: May 12, 2025

Illinois Legislative News

Last week was busy at the Capitol as Illinois lawmakers approached the May 9 opposite chamber committee deadline. With the May 23 deadline for opposite chamber third readings and May 31 adjournment on the horizon, the next few weeks will be jam-packed with committee, floor action, and budget discussions.

On Wednesday, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stopped in Springfield, criticizing local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration goals. Secretary Noem spoke near the spot where Emma Shafer was killed in 2023—allegedly by an undocumented immigrant, though a lot of the details are still unclear. Noem took aim at Governor Pritzker, accusing him of turning Illinois into a “sanctuary for criminals.” Her visit added fuel to the already heated debate over immigration policy in the state. Interestingly, the night before her visit, Pritzker’s office sent out a stark message reminding people to “protect their pets”—a jab referencing Noem’s memoir story about shooting her family dog as a child.

In other news, one of the bigger legislative conversations last week happened in the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee. Lawmakers held a subject matter hearing on SB 1527. This bill would lift the 1980’s moratorium on all nuclear reactors in Illinois. In 2023, Governor JB Pritzker signed a bill that lifted the moratorium on small nuclear reactors, but SB 1527 goes further by allowing all sizes of nuclear plants in Illinois. Proponents of SB 1527 argue the need to expand nuclear energy to relieve the State’s electric grid, especially with the growing demand of electricity from data centers and AI. They also point to nuclear as a possible path to a carbon-free energy future. However, opponents express concern about the lack of oversight for large-scale nuclear projects and nuclear waste management.

Important Upcoming Dates – Statewide

May 23 – Opposite Chamber Third Reading Deadline

May 31 – Adjournment

<a href=”https://evanstonnow.com/ruttenberg-running-for-state-senate/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://evanstonnow.com/ruttenberg-running-for-state-senate/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw33gTmCG44CDZ_6Vg4wbjVk”>Ruttenberg running for state senate</a> – Evanston Now, May 8, 2025.

Two days after State Sen. Laura Fine announced plans to run for Congress, Evanstonian Rachel Ruttenberg has launched a campaign to succeed Fine in Springfield.

<a href=”https://www.politico.com/newsletters/illinois-playbook/2025/05/08/kristi-noem-highlights-immigration-at-springfield-media-event-00335220″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.politico.com/newsletters/illinois-playbook/2025/05/08/kristi-noem-highlights-immigration-at-springfield-media-event-00335220&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_x_plEcrRw68CCGQRyNyT”>A Springfield ‘publicity stunt’</a> – Politico, May 8, 2025.

Kristi Noem created a firestorm in Springfield on Wednesday by invoking the name of Emma Shafer to criticize the Pritzker administration on the issue of immigration.

<a href=”https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/phil-perez-illinois-governor-race-pritzker-eyes-national-stage” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/phil-perez-illinois-governor-race-pritzker-eyes-national-stage&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Up5ndiS9nPInwsMUp_bwd”>Phil Perez enters Illinois governor’s race with grassroots message as Pritzker eyes national stage</a> – FOX Chicago, May 8, 2025.

A local union mechanic and park district commissioner says he’s ready to bring real-world experience to Illinois’ top job.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-approves-classroom-cellphone-ban?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_08_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-approves-classroom-cellphone-ban?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_08_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw38KjVy1v2TgxUSs3rvqWpK”>Illinois House committee approves classroom cellphone ban</a> – The Daily Line, May 8, 2025.

The Illinois House Education Policy Committee on Wednesday approved an initiative of the governor to ban cell phones in Illinois classrooms. Senate Bill 2427 would require all Illinois school districts and charter schools to adopt a policy that limits the use of cellphones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches and smart glasses during class time.

<a href=”https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/dhs-secretary-kristi-noems-illinois-stop-on-immigration-laws-called-publicity-stunt/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/dhs-secretary-kristi-noems-illinois-stop-on-immigration-laws-called-publicity-stunt/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Xo_Oqqb_8tu2EojKEpzcT”>DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s Illinois stop on immigration laws called ‘publicity stunt’</a> – Capitol News Illinois, May 7, 2025.

Two hours in the state capital was enough for U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to criticize Illinois’ immigration laws and its governor while invoking the 2023 murder of a local progressive activist.

<a href=”https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/illinois-regains-access-to-77m-in-federal-education-funds-following-judges-order/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/illinois-regains-access-to-77m-in-federal-education-funds-following-judges-order/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0C4KgSSt9GsDn4b1j-MmEE”>Illinois regains access to $77M in federal education funds following judge’s order</a> – Capitol News Illinois, May 7, 2025.

A federal judge in New York issued a preliminary order Tuesday blocking the Trump administration from cutting off states’ access to hundreds of millions of dollars in pandemic relief funds for public schools, including more than $77 million for Illinois.

<a href=”https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/illinois-proposal-seal-criminal-arrest-records-employment/63-f5631117-c3b1-42f3-a280-cf46f41bd958″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/local/illinois-proposal-seal-criminal-arrest-records-employment/63-f5631117-c3b1-42f3-a280-cf46f41bd958&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw03Q4hMvaLFyW3bCesyVjQC”>Illinois proposal could seal criminal, arrest records for millions, easing path to employment</a> – KSDK News, May 7, 2025.

Illinois lawmakers are debating legislation that could seal the criminal records of up to 3 million residents who have served their sentences for non-violent offenses, potentially removing a significant barrier to employment and housing.

<a href=”https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/illinois-house-committee-approves-turner-bill-expanding-agriculture-education/article_3826224e-2c3a-4678-9041-5bcc7ff3d73b.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/illinois-house-committee-approves-turner-bill-expanding-agriculture-education/article_3826224e-2c3a-4678-9041-5bcc7ff3d73b.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1fUD0GzT6zs4qFqOILnx3P”>Illinois House committee approves Turner bill expanding agriculture education</a> – Wand News, May 7, 2025.

The Illinois House Education Policy Committee approved a bill Wednesday to allow agriculture courses to satisfy vocational education requirements for high school students. Rep. Mary Gill (D-Chicago) and Sen. Doris Turner (D-Springfield) said students should be able to use their agricultural studies to fulfill graduation requirements.

<a href=”https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/massive-signs-erected-outside-illinois-governors-mansion-amid-kristi-noem-visit/3740250/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/massive-signs-erected-outside-illinois-governors-mansion-amid-kristi-noem-visit/3740250/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw07fXp3COvujH7_KY-d1Utx”>Massive signs erected outside Illinois Governor’s Mansion amid Kristi Noem visit</a> – NBC 5 Chicago, May 7, 2025.

Large signs could be seen on the gates to the Illinois Governor’s Mansion in Springfield Wednesday as U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited. “Due process for all,” numerous signs situated along the property read, referencing criticism that the Trump Administration’s current immigration policies are pushing, if not violating, constitutional limits.

<a href=”https://www.advantagenews.com/news/local/bill-could-ban-single-use-styrofoam-containers/article_e66bab72-a7f2-49ec-92b8-883c0d53f283.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.advantagenews.com/news/local/bill-could-ban-single-use-styrofoam-containers/article_e66bab72-a7f2-49ec-92b8-883c0d53f283.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xjVbPKmZvUcSCthGG7DYf”>Bill could ban single-use Styrofoam containers</a> – Advantage News, May 7, 2025.

Illinois House could take up bill to ban single-use polystyrene (Styrofoam) containers. The Illinois House of Representatives could take up a measure this month that would ban the sale of polystyrene food service packaging in the state by 2030.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-holds-hearing-legislation-remove-truth-sentencing-mandatory-minimums?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_07_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-holds-hearing-legislation-remove-truth-sentencing-mandatory-minimums?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_07_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0A4uQHGeis-PgbfX0WEjbt”>Illinois House committee holds hearing on legislation to remove ‘truth-in-sentencing’ mandatory minimums</a> – The Daily Line, May 7, 2025.

The Illinois House Judiciary Criminal Committee met Tuesday to discuss a proposal to remove mandatory minimum sentencing for some crimes. There are two measures proposed in the House that would do this — House Bill 2367 and House Bill 3449. They are proposed by Rep. Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora) and Rep. Justin Slaughter (D-Chicago).

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-passes-bills-incentivize-young-farmers-create-exception-pets-vaccine-requirement?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_07_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/illinois-house-committee-passes-bills-incentivize-young-farmers-create-exception-pets-vaccine-requirement?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_07_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0uyxnxQwoUIL1lwEbiw5V_”>Illinois House committee passes bills to incentivize young farmers, create exception for pets’ vaccine requirement</a> – The Daily Line, May 7, 2025.

The Illinois House Agriculture and Conservation Committee approved measures Tuesday to improve the number of young farmers in the state, clarify state grant programs and create an exception to the rabies vaccine for pets.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/donald-trump/2025/05/06/gov-jb-pritzker-illinois-sanctuary-policy-house-oversight-committee-testimony” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/donald-trump/2025/05/06/gov-jb-pritzker-illinois-sanctuary-policy-house-oversight-committee-testimony&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0PNuavJ0RAqgkOF6KxlHrc”>Gov. Pritzker to testify in Washington about Illinois sanctuary policy</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 6, 2025.

Gov. JB Pritzker has agreed to testify before the Republican-led U.S. House Oversight and Government Reform Committee on June 12 alongside New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz over their states’ immigration policies.

<a href=”https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/new-study-suggests-changes-to-illinois-community-college-university-pipeline/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/new-study-suggests-changes-to-illinois-community-college-university-pipeline/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197202000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3CGNqe7-4jxXYk7Ub_9RLB”>New study suggests changes to Illinois’ community college-university pipeline</a> – Capitol News Illinois, May 6, 2025.

As the cost of higher education continues to rise, many students have turned to local community colleges as a way of holding down the cost of pursuing a degree. Sometimes referred to as the “2-plus-2” model, the idea is to complete the freshman- and sophomore-level general education requirements at a local community college – where tuition rates may be half to one-third that of a four-year institution – then transfer to a university to finish out a degree.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/other-views/2025/05/07/electric-vehicles-limit-options-illinoisans-anti-consumer-car-dealerships-liam-condon” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/other-views/2025/05/07/electric-vehicles-limit-options-illinoisans-anti-consumer-car-dealerships-liam-condon&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2EIKevJTTnFul6xFmWgaER”>Opinion: Proposed bill would limit where customers could buy EVs</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 7, 2025.

When I want to purchase something, I go to the company’s website or brick-and-mortar store and buy it. That’s how commerce works. But Senate Bill 1939, which is expected to go before Illinois legislators Wednesday, would make it illegal to buy many electric vehicles in this manner.

<a href=”https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/video/snarky-back-and-forth-ahead-of-dhs-secretary-kristi-noems-visit-to-springfield/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/video/snarky-back-and-forth-ahead-of-dhs-secretary-kristi-noems-visit-to-springfield/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Po-iBhZA5nRDvmguhfjsT”>WATCH: Snarky back-and-forth ahead of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s visit to Springfield</a> – CBS News Chicago, May 6, 2025.

Noem is expected to talk about what she calls the failures of sanctuary city policies.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/07/raja-krishnamoorthi-running-for-senate/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/07/raja-krishnamoorthi-running-for-senate/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Y4MND9Nkp3JNjxm2yi-Oz”>US Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi joins increasingly crowded race to succeed Dick Durbin in Senate</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 7, 2025.

Another contestant joined the still-emerging field of Democrats vying to succeed U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin Wednesday as five-term northwest suburban U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi launched his bid, pitching himself as a “radical common sense progressive” to take on President Donald Trump.

<a href=”https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/il-bill-to-require-school-coaches-to-receive-cpr-first-aid-and-aed-training-passes/article_e868489f-d5a9-4a65-8a99-d088b3172065.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/il-bill-to-require-school-coaches-to-receive-cpr-first-aid-and-aed-training-passes/article_e868489f-d5a9-4a65-8a99-d088b3172065.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0H9LsYCzNnlFzUMMDnHPUK”>IL bill to require school coaches to receive CPR, first aid and AED training passes Senate committee unanimously</a> – Wand News, May 6, 2025.

A bill to require training for coaches on how to give CPR, first aid and use AED’s passed the Illinois Senate education committee unanimously Tuesday.

<a href=”https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/il-senate-committee-unanimously-approves-bill-banning-firefighting-protective-gear-containing-pfas/article_07f07125-169e-44ef-90df-4b1d30bfe932.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wandtv.com/news/statehouse/il-senate-committee-unanimously-approves-bill-banning-firefighting-protective-gear-containing-pfas/article_07f07125-169e-44ef-90df-4b1d30bfe932.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2lygCtEyJKijkUWp_-il9G”>IL Senate committee unanimously approves bill banning firefighting protective gear containing PFAS</a> – Wand News, May 6, 2025.

Illinois is one step closer to banning companies from manufacturing, selling, and distributing firefighting protective gear that contain forever chemicals. Sponsors and advocates believe the legislation can address concerns regarding PPE by eliminating the sale of turnout gear containing PFAS and improve long-term health risks that firefighters face.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2025/05/07/rfk-jr-pritzker-sign-executive-order-protecting-autism-data” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/politics/2025/05/07/rfk-jr-pritzker-sign-executive-order-protecting-autism-data&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3agCDV752SsdA6WTEPbi64″>In response to RFK Jr., Pritzker to sign first in nation executive order protecting autism data</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 7, 2025.

Gov. JB Pritzker on Wednesday plans to sign an executive order to restrict the mass collection and sharing of autism-related data for Illinois residents, in response to the country’s top health secretary’s rhetoric around the cause of autism.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/cogfa-increases-revenue-forecasts-economic-uncertainty-dampens-fiscal-year-26-predictions?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_06_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/cogfa-increases-revenue-forecasts-economic-uncertainty-dampens-fiscal-year-26-predictions?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_06_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0-J4acvsLlO4GJxMBnphBR”>COGFA increases revenue forecasts, economic uncertainty dampens Fiscal Year 26 predictions</a> – The Daily Line, May 6, 2025.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability (COGFA) increased their revenue estimates for Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026, but FY26 forecast remains below the governor’s budget office’s prediction.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/06/robin-kelly-running-for-senate/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/06/robin-kelly-running-for-senate/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2g8wkMgBnA2A1T3qYC_qD4″>US Rep. Robin Kelly jumps into US Senate race to replace retiring Dick Durbin</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 6, 2025.

South suburban U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly on Tuesday became the second candidate to enter what’s expected to be a crowded field to replace retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, setting up a potential Democratic proxy battle with Gov. JB Pritzker.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/krishnamoorthi-has-19m-senate-bid-more-rivals-combined?utm_content=article2-headline&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250506″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/krishnamoorthi-has-19m-senate-bid-more-rivals-combined?utm_content%3Darticle2-headline%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250506&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1_v349pJeNlxc2JynIKbdt”>How Raja Krishnamoorthi became the money leader in the Senate sweepstakes</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 6, 2025.

Not too long ago, an Illinois politician was traveling out of state when they stopped at a store to make a purchase. The shopkeeper, of Indian ancestry, noted the official was from Illinois and asked if they happened to know an acquaintance of his: Raja Krishnamoorthi, a Democratic congressman who represents much of Chicago’s northwestern suburbs.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/2025/05/05/rep-jan-schakowsky-announces-she-wont-seek-re-election-to-congress?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=050625%20Morning%20Edition&amp;utm_content=050625%20Morning%20Edition+CID_1a7c158cfe5d742ac64325cf2edbbf33&amp;utm_source=cst_campaign_monitor&amp;utm_term=Rep%20Jan%20Schakowsky%20wont%20seek%20reelection%20to%20Congress&amp;tpcc=cst_cm” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/2025/05/05/rep-jan-schakowsky-announces-she-wont-seek-re-election-to-congress?utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D050625%2520Morning%2520Edition%26utm_content%3D050625%2520Morning%2520Edition%2BCID_1a7c158cfe5d742ac64325cf2edbbf33%26utm_source%3Dcst_campaign_monitor%26utm_term%3DRep%2520Jan%2520Schakowsky%2520wont%2520seek%2520reelection%2520to%2520Congress%26tpcc%3Dcst_cm&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EdllzOH6u6Ejj9XMmwfBM”>Rep. Jan Schakowsky won’t seek reelection to Congress, but vows to be ‘always an activist'</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 5, 2025.

Longtime Democratic Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky on Monday told friends and supporters at her annual Chicago luncheon that she will not be seeking reelection, setting up a competitive race for the seat she’s held since 1999.

<a href=”https://wgntv.com/news/illinois/sen-laura-fine-announces-bid-for-illinois-9th-congressional-district/?email=343d67236b872676d312d0ee893c8d5cc20a5250&amp;emaila=a8e2581505668e80a25b5006f42f9492&amp;emailb=276716543b283d799fa278371cb5263fb18ec3c172fb44d7bd4fb9c445c0d5d3&amp;utm_source=Sailthru&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=Curated%20News%20Daily%20Update%202025-05-06&amp;utm_content=wgn%20news%20daily%20update” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://wgntv.com/news/illinois/sen-laura-fine-announces-bid-for-illinois-9th-congressional-district/?email%3D343d67236b872676d312d0ee893c8d5cc20a5250%26emaila%3Da8e2581505668e80a25b5006f42f9492%26emailb%3D276716543b283d799fa278371cb5263fb18ec3c172fb44d7bd4fb9c445c0d5d3%26utm_source%3DSailthru%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3DCurated%2520News%2520Daily%2520Update%25202025-05-06%26utm_content%3Dwgn%2520news%2520daily%2520update&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Ei2u1XGol8vOnjlaTWkf1″>Sen. Laura Fine announces bid for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District</a> – WGN, May 6, 2025.

State Senator Laura Fine announced Tuesday that she is running for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, just a day after Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky announced that she would not be seeking reelection.

<a href=”https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/pritzkers-total-war-message-is-a-hit-among-angry-democrats.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/pritzkers-total-war-message-is-a-hit-among-angry-democrats.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw30l-V22DoL9fqNP1c5D67a”>J.B. Pritzker’s Total War Message Is a Hit Among Angry Democrats</a> – New York Magazine, May 1, 2025.

From the moment Kamala Harris lost to Donald Trump last November (along with her party losing control of the U.S. Senate), Democrats have been arguing, not very quietly, about the best strategy for fighting Trump 2.0 and regaining some positive momentum. There have been three areas of disagreement, by my reckoning: Should Democrats have a strategically selective response to what Trump is doing? Should Democrats appeal to 2024 Trump voters with messages that concede some ground to Republicans and/or stress points of agreement? And should Democrats conduct a sort of internal purge to highlight fresher or younger leadership options for the future?

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/pritzker-rejects-one-central-funding-feasibility-study?utm-content=article4-readmore&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250505″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/pritzker-rejects-one-central-funding-feasibility-study?utm-content%3Darticle4-readmore%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250505&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2622x39eeEaFYlw0BelFky”>Pritzker shuts door on state funding for revised One Central megaproject</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 2, 2025.

Citing the results of a long-delayed feasibility study released today, Gov. JB Pritzker is pouring cold water on the proposed One Central megadevelopment despite the developer overhauling the project’s cost projections — and trimming the state subsidy he’s seeking by $4 billion.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-public-safety-committee-reconvenes-postponed-curfew-ordinance-vote-alderman-brian-hopkins?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_05_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-public-safety-committee-reconvenes-postponed-curfew-ordinance-vote-alderman-brian-hopkins?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_05_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3RLW0RyZGJEiwnhouuLykx”>Public Safety Committee to reconvene after postponing curfew ordinance vote</a> – The Daily Line, May 5, 2025.

The City Council Committee on Public Safety will reconvene on Monday and could consider a measure that would give police more power to impose emergency curfews to respond to large “teen takeovers” that occur downtown predominantly in the summer.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/hotel-industry-leaders-concerned-federal-tariffs-reverse-pandemic-recovery?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_05_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/hotel-industry-leaders-concerned-federal-tariffs-reverse-pandemic-recovery?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_05_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0EmijekbdZe6r5zLh-DRyS”>Hotel industry leaders concerned federal tariffs could reverse pandemic recovery</a> – The Daily Line, May 5, 2025.

As tariffs and other federal policies cause confusion for travelers, the Illinois hotel and hospitality industry is warning of a possible downturn in business.

<a>Laura Ricketts to co-chair Juliana Stratton’s finance committee</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 5, 2025.

Laura Ricketts and her wife, Brooke Skinner Ricketts, are among the co-chairs of Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton’s finance committee in her campaign for U.S. Senate.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/editorial-illinois-is-uncle-sams-piggy-bank-again-but-gov-jb-pritzker-must-follow-the-law/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/editorial-illinois-is-uncle-sams-piggy-bank-again-but-gov-jb-pritzker-must-follow-the-law/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2cRQdLquSRUKUtwdtov6mn”>Editorial: Illinois is Uncle Sam’s piggy bank again. But Gov. JB Pritzker must follow the law.</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 5, 2025.

Illinois’ schools, transit agencies and health systems have known for a long time that federal pandemic relief is ending and a budget squeeze is coming. Now an obscure but important calculation from the federal government is flashing red, suggesting everyday residents should prepare for harder times ahead as well.

<a href=”https://www.dailyherald.com/20250504/transportation/27-million-fallout-cost-of-tollway-bid-misstep-piles-up/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.dailyherald.com/20250504/transportation/27-million-fallout-cost-of-tollway-bid-misstep-piles-up/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw34QFVTzXBwcFsL6En7_OEz”>$27 million fallout? Cost of tollway bid misstep piles up</a> – Daily Herald, May 4, 2025.

The costs of awarding a major construction contract to the wrong company are adding up for the Illinois tollway. The agency settled a lawsuit with Judlau Construction in 2024, paying about $10 million in damages after abruptly canceling its contract to reconfigure the southbound side of the I-88/I-290 interchange.

<a href=”https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2025-05-02/illinois-indiana-secession-commission-likely-wont-have-any-illinois-members” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2025-05-02/illinois-indiana-secession-commission-likely-wont-have-any-illinois-members&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3m9DEMvSS-PlDxRYpSdfuf”>Illinois-Indiana secession commission likely won’t have any Illinois members</a> – STLPR, May 2, 2025.

After 33 counties in downstate Illinois voted in favor of symbolic referendums about creating a new state since 2020, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun has taken the discussion a step further.

Braun signed into law on Thursday legislation that would establish a commission to study adjusting the boundaries between the two states. The first-term Republican could not be immediately reached for comment Friday.

<a href=”https://www.news-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-revenue-issues-will-complicate-state-budget-plan/article_3d57a536-3a4e-450f-9a01-0aa6395f1a4a.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.news-gazette.com/opinion/editorials/editorial-revenue-issues-will-complicate-state-budget-plan/article_3d57a536-3a4e-450f-9a01-0aa6395f1a4a.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3W9JmwCCnbp3wYhmB91-I3″>Editorial | Revenue issues will complicate state budget plan</a> – News Gazette, May 5, 204.

Members of the Illinois House and Senate could be headed for a budget showdown with Gov. J.B. Pritzker. The current state legislative session is scheduled to wrap at the end of the month, and that means there will be much debate and discussion of the state’s budget plan for the 2025-26 fiscal year that begins July 1.

<a href=”https://www.dailyherald.com/20250503/news/new-illinois-supporters-meet-in-palatine-discuss-urban-rural-divide/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.dailyherald.com/20250503/news/new-illinois-supporters-meet-in-palatine-discuss-urban-rural-divide/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw38MX770FJrWhfZFnFsfdBO”>‘New Illinois’ supporters meet in Palatine, discuss urban-rural divide</a> – Daily Herald, May 3, 2025.

New Illinois, an organization that wants to create a state separate from Chicago and urban Cook County, drew about 60 people to a meeting Saturday at the Palatine Township Republican Organization office.

<a href=”https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c044f527-b5a6-47de-8c55-0e1f14ad8574.html” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thecentersquare.com/illinois/article_c044f527-b5a6-47de-8c55-0e1f14ad8574.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0X0U7fB_3Ko4OHm8m0vC5m”>Proposal would deduct from IL paychecks to create new state agency</a> – The Center Square, May 3, 2025.

A small business advocate says a paid leave proposal in the Illinois Senate would be a direct tax on workers and employers. State Sen. Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, proposed creating the Division of Paid Family and Medical Leave within the Illinois Department of Labor with Senate Bill 2413.

<a href=”https://www.dailyherald.com/20250502/news/candidates-lining-up-for-14th-congressional-seat/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.dailyherald.com/20250502/news/candidates-lining-up-for-14th-congressional-seat/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw01UrBzKCYUVj0C6j7wKV_N”>Candidates lining up for 14th Congressional seat</a> – Daily Herald, May 2, 2025.

As Democratic U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood of Naperville weighs a potential Senate campaign in 2026, two other candidates have surfaced for her 14th Congressional District seat.

<a href=”https://capitolfax.com/2025/05/02/cogfa-increases-revenue-forecasts-but-fy26-prediction-is-still-below-pritzkers-estimate/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://capitolfax.com/2025/05/02/cogfa-increases-revenue-forecasts-but-fy26-prediction-is-still-below-pritzkers-estimate/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Mdcfp6XFdA4mNyrGUI9KB”>COGFA increases revenue forecasts, but FY26 prediction is still below Pritzker’s estimate</a> – Capitol Fax, May 2, 2025.

When the Commission released its FY 2025 revenue estimate in March, it noted that “if income tax revenues come in strong during the upcoming final tax period, and if other revenue sources, such as the sales tax, continue to improve, the Commission could potentially make another upward revision in May.” As discussed earlier in this publication, April revenues did indeed come in above expectations. While the level of growth is only moderately above initial projections, the revenue gains were high enough that a modest upward revision could be made.

<a href=”https://news.wttw.com/2025/05/02/illinois-lawmakers-seek-boost-housing-resources-people-leaving-prison” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://news.wttw.com/2025/05/02/illinois-lawmakers-seek-boost-housing-resources-people-leaving-prison&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw07ejze_20Ss0Hf3Z3YvYMp”>Illinois Lawmakers Seek to Boost Housing Resources for People Leaving Prison</a> – WTTW, May 2, 2025.

It took Javier Reyes 11 rental applications to find housing after his incarceration. Some applications went without a response; some people said they don’t lease to those with records.

“Even in jail, I had a place to sleep,” Reyes said. Illinois lawmakers and advocates are trying to advance a pair of bills that could alleviate the housing burden on those in situations similar to Reyes. HB3162 and SB2403, together known as “Home for Good,” would boost funding for housing dedicated to those reentering society after incarceration and those in community violence intervention programs.

<a href=”https://www.wcia.com/news/capitol-news/il-house-committee-hears-debate-over-save-act/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wcia.com/news/capitol-news/il-house-committee-hears-debate-over-save-act/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw39-Uz5h7fUyZLTnAi226v0″>IL House Committee hears debate over SAVE Act</a> – WCIA, May 2, 2025.

The Illinois House Ethics and Elections Committee heard heated testimony over the potential impact of the proposal on Illinois voters and its impact on voters’ ability to vote.

<a href=”https://abc7chicago.com/post/senate-bill-1563-known-squatter-advances-committee-heads-full-illinois-house-approval/16306059/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://abc7chicago.com/post/senate-bill-1563-known-squatter-advances-committee-heads-full-illinois-house-approval/16306059/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2bTkCuWgChgRiKRI6lV7ap”>Illinois ‘Squatter Bill’ advances out of committee, heads to full House for approval</a> – ABC7 Chicago, May 2, 2025.

An Illinois bill to crack down on squatting is another step closer to becoming law.

The proposed law would make it easier for police to remove squatters from someone’s home, bypassing the months-long eviction process.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/2025/05/02/trump-executive-order-cut-federal-funding-npr-pbs-illinois?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=050525%20Morning%20Edition&amp;utm_content=050525%20Morning%20Edition+CID_9d45af1fe6629dffa827b03053388268&amp;utm_source=cst_campaign_monitor&amp;utm_term=Trumps%20order%20to%20cut%20federal%20funding%20to%20NPR%20and%20PBS%20could%20impact%20Illinois&amp;tpcc=cst_cm” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/2025/05/02/trump-executive-order-cut-federal-funding-npr-pbs-illinois?utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D050525%2520Morning%2520Edition%26utm_content%3D050525%2520Morning%2520Edition%2BCID_9d45af1fe6629dffa827b03053388268%26utm_source%3Dcst_campaign_monitor%26utm_term%3DTrumps%2520order%2520to%2520cut%2520federal%2520funding%2520to%2520NPR%2520and%2520PBS%2520could%2520impact%2520Illinois%26tpcc%3Dcst_cm&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1jK6aMQYspu1Hli5R7xRjN”>Here’s how Trump’s order to cut federal funding to NPR and PBS could impact Illinois</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 2, 2025.

President Donald Trump has long declared his enmity for public broadcasting. Deploying what he sees as the power of the federal purse, he has launched a multi-front battle against the business. The targets are the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and, by extension, PBS television network, NPR and 1,500 broadcast outlets across the country, including Chicago’s WBEZ and WTTW. Chicago Public Media owns WBEZ and the Sun-Times.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/brandon-johnson/2025/05/09/mayor-brandon-johnson-term-midpoint-analysis-interview” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/brandon-johnson/2025/05/09/mayor-brandon-johnson-term-midpoint-analysis-interview&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3ZMtJhJ5vsX5Vum1WF2cjM”>Two years in, Mayor Brandon Johnson admits he’s made some missteps, gaffes</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 9, 2025.

As Brandon Johnson approaches the midpoint of his term as Chicago mayor, he confronts a reality that he readily acknowledges. He must do a better job conveying to the city “why and what” he wants to get done.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/nonprofits-philanthropy/chicago-born-cardinal-prevost-elected-pope-historic-first?utm_content=article1-headline&amp;utm_source=afternoon-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250508″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/nonprofits-philanthropy/chicago-born-cardinal-prevost-elected-pope-historic-first?utm_content%3Darticle1-headline%26utm_source%3Dafternoon-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250508&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0xWcTtwdM-K_kTV4Bflv1m”>From South Side altar boy to pope: Chicago’s Robert Prevost makes history</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 8, 2025.

Robert Francis Prevost, born at Mercy Hospital and named a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church only two years ago, was elected pope today.

<a href=”https://www.wbez.org/education/2025/05/08/chicago-mayor-criticized-for-pushing-his-chief-of-staff-for-interim-cps-leader” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wbez.org/education/2025/05/08/chicago-mayor-criticized-for-pushing-his-chief-of-staff-for-interim-cps-leader&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3Hy1v2jB1sCCRluZwW30BA”>Chicago mayor criticized for pushing his chief of staff for interim CPS leader</a> – WBEZ Chicago, May 8, 2025.

Some board of education members say Mayor Brandon Johnson is overstepping, while others say he should have someone who can push his agenda.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/religion/2025/05/08/chicago-pope-politicians-react-prevost” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/religion/2025/05/08/chicago-pope-politicians-react-prevost&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PDWdCGMquHmnBFppfr8e0″>Chicago and Illinois politicians praise ‘Da Pope'</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 8, 2025.

Leaders of all faiths and on both sides of the aisle welcomed the South Side’s own Robert Prevost — Pope Leo XIV — as head of the Catholic Church. “We hope to welcome you back home soon,” Mayor Brandon Johnson.

<a href=”https://www.dailyherald.com/20250507/transportation/real-id-enforcement-begins-at-ohare-airports-nationwide/?utm_source=&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_content=article%20column&amp;utm_campaign=05%2F08%2F2025″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.dailyherald.com/20250507/transportation/real-id-enforcement-begins-at-ohare-airports-nationwide/?utm_source%3D%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_content%3Darticle%2520column%26utm_campaign%3D05%252F08%252F2025&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0HUD1kHJ6pZRXGu0adND_2″>REAL ID enforcement begins at O’Hare, airports nationwide</a> – Daily Herald, May 7, 2025.

After years of postponed deadlines, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration began enforcing REAL ID requirements at airports nationwide Wednesday.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/city-council-oks-green-social-housing-ordinance?utm_content=article3-readmore&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250508″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/city-council-oks-green-social-housing-ordinance?utm_content%3Darticle3-readmore%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250508&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw12-Iy8NNA1w3bLO0kxCndE”>Council OKs Johnson-backed plan to let Chicago become a residential developer</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 7, 2025.

The City Council has approved a plan to create a city-run nonprofit to build and maintain housing developments with the aim of creating more affordable housing in wealthy neighborhoods.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/commercial-real-estate/bronzeville-church-pitches-affordable-housing-development?utm_content=article4-readmore&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250508″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/commercial-real-estate/bronzeville-church-pitches-affordable-housing-development?utm_content%3Darticle4-readmore%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250508&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2N8rdgYO51sxL7wuhqjqbI”>Historic Bronzeville church proposes big affordable housing development</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 7, 2025.

Over the last 175 years, a Bronzeville church has served as part of the Underground Railroad and a hub for people displaced during a race riot. Now, church leadership hopes it will be the site of one of the largest affordable housing developments Chicago has seen in years.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-public-safety-committee-city-council-new-oemc-director-appointment-francisco-velez?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_08_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-public-safety-committee-city-council-new-oemc-director-appointment-francisco-velez?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_08_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197203000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0b-kfCoQNE0OVu2wX6IKzb”>Public Safety committee to consider appointment of new OEMC director</a> – The Daily Line, May 8, 2025.

The City Council Committee on Public Safety on Friday will consider the appointment of a new director of the Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC). Alderpeople on the committee will consider the appointment of interim OEMC Director Francisco Velez to lead the emergency management agency. Velez would succeed Jose Tirado, who left in February to take a job with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/07/harold-washington-library-safety-concerns/?lctg=C4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7&amp;utm_email=C4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7&amp;active=no&amp;utm_source=listrak&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fwww.chicagotribune.com%2f2025%2f05%2f07%2fharold-washington-library-safety-concerns%2f&amp;utm_campaign=trib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl&amp;utm_content=curated” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/07/harold-washington-library-safety-concerns/?lctg%3DC4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7%26utm_email%3DC4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7%26active%3Dno%26utm_source%3Dlistrak%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_term%3Dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.chicagotribune.com%252f2025%252f05%252f07%252fharold-washington-library-safety-concerns%252f%26utm_campaign%3Dtrib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl%26utm_content%3Dcurated&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw33Z8pLH_f3X0Rlhuxsm3mE”>Harold Washington librarians concerned for their safety with security incidents on the rise</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 8, 2025.

On a good day, Christopher Crotwell said he will usually leave his job of eight years at Harold Washington Library feeling sad. On a bad day, he will leave feeling angry. Crotwell works in the computer commons on the third floor, where he said that violent and uncomfortable incidents are a regular occurrence at work.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/crime/2025/05/07/former-cps-principal-stealing-300k-found-dead-sentencing” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/crime/2025/05/07/former-cps-principal-stealing-300k-found-dead-sentencing&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Do9JKriBHendNap2l3gmD”>Former CPS principal who admitted stealing $300K found dead ahead of sentencing</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 7, 2025.

With her sentencing day near, a former North Side elementary school principal who stole nearly $300,000 from the Chicago Public Schools told her attorneys that she’d already experienced the worst days of her life, and that she’d “get through this, too”.

<a href=”https://www.wbez.org/education/2025/05/07/depaul-president-faces-off-against-gop-members-of-congress” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wbez.org/education/2025/05/07/depaul-president-faces-off-against-gop-members-of-congress&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TEEZk7KlCl4ROUXDtHt5M”>DePaul president faces off against GOP members of Congress</a> – WEBEZ Chicago, May 7, 2025.

DePaul University President Robert Manuel faced more than three hours of heated questioning from conservative members of Congress on Wednesday morning about alleged antisemitism on his Chicago campus.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/08/cook-county-housing-authority-budget-shortfall/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/08/cook-county-housing-authority-budget-shortfall/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3GBS229deOCtuF6Wa8_YIz”>Cook County housing authority facing potential multimillion-dollar budget shortfall as agencies brace for funding cuts</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 8, 2025.

The Housing Authority of Cook County is facing a potential multimillion-dollar funding shortfall that could have broad repercussions throughout the real estate market as the struggling agency looks to cut costs, possibly leading to greater expenses for its housing voucher holders and a decline in the number of the people it serves. The agency attributes the shortfall to an increase in its voucher usage rate and rising rents, which eat into its limited dollars allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/transit-groups-urge-mayor-rethink-cta-appointment?utm_content=article4-readmore&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250507″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/politics/transit-groups-urge-mayor-rethink-cta-appointment?utm_content%3Darticle4-readmore%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250507&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw076_FPyIJylj4LKW_sYd0g”>Johnson faces pushback over CTA pick as advocates push for broader search</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 6, 2025.

Mayor Brandon Johnson is being urged to hold off on naming a permanent leader of the Chicago Transit Authority even as he attempts to gain support to install the city’s chief operating officer, John Roberson, in the post.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-may-2025-meeting-preview-green-social-housing?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_07_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-may-2025-meeting-preview-green-social-housing?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_07_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0OO8cjqv3bQH8KrLvnNYHk”>City Council could consider Green Social Housing corporation ordinance, set to hold Board of Ethics confirmation votes</a> – The Daily Line, May 7, 2025.

The City Council on Wednesday will consider final confirmation of two nominees to sit on the city’s ethics board and could give final approval to the creation of a development corporation for one of the city’s affordable housing development initiatives.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/06/mayor-brandon-johnson-deal-columbus-statues/?lctg=C4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7&amp;utm_email=C4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7&amp;active=no&amp;utm_source=listrak&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fwww.chicagotribune.com%2f2025%2f05%2f06%2fmayor-brandon-johnson-deal-columbus-statues%2f&amp;utm_campaign=trib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl&amp;utm_content=curated” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/06/mayor-brandon-johnson-deal-columbus-statues/?lctg%3DC4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7%26utm_email%3DC4A1448DF459049C94A6747FA7%26active%3Dno%26utm_source%3Dlistrak%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_term%3Dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.chicagotribune.com%252f2025%252f05%252f06%252fmayor-brandon-johnson-deal-columbus-statues%252f%26utm_campaign%3Dtrib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl%26utm_content%3Dcurated&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0pMzTF8B8oO8fTCX0NICCw”>Mayor Brandon Johnson defends deal on Columbus statues</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 6, 2025.

Mayor Brandon Johnson defended the decision Tuesday to permanently remove Christopher Columbus statues from two Chicago parks as an effort to show “our collective humanity.” The Grant Park and Arrigo Park Columbus statues have hung in political limbo since then-Mayor Lori Lightfoot removed them amid protests in 2020.

<a href=”https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/clock-counting-down-state-funding-cta-metra-pace/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/clock-counting-down-state-funding-cta-metra-pace/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2GziesVWRmaa_NkgJO4bwN”>Clock counting down to secure state funding before drastic service cuts to CTA, Metra, Pace</a> – CBS News Chicago, May 6, 2025.

A warning has been issued to anyone who takes public transportation in Chicago — with drastic service cuts looming, Illinois legislators only have until the end of the month to decide what to do and how to address it.

<a href=”https://chicago.suntimes.com/city-hall/2025/05/06/trump-tower-plaza-barricades-pulled-back-after-months-of-complaints?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=050725%20Morning%20Edition&amp;utm_content=050725%20Morning%20Edition+CID_555b00d1dfd297d46b4b283f000e9af1&amp;utm_source=cst_campaign_monitor&amp;utm_term=Trump%20Tower%20plaza%20barricades%20are%20pulled%20back%20after%20months%20of%20complaints&amp;tpcc=cst_cm” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://chicago.suntimes.com/city-hall/2025/05/06/trump-tower-plaza-barricades-pulled-back-after-months-of-complaints?utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D050725%2520Morning%2520Edition%26utm_content%3D050725%2520Morning%2520Edition%2BCID_555b00d1dfd297d46b4b283f000e9af1%26utm_source%3Dcst_campaign_monitor%26utm_term%3DTrump%2520Tower%2520plaza%2520barricades%2520are%2520pulled%2520back%2520after%2520months%2520of%2520complaints%26tpcc%3Dcst_cm&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1Py-mt4m5sY3eqEzDzjedr”>Trump Tower plaza barricades pulled back after months of complaints</a> – Chicago Sun Times, May 6, 2025.

After months of the public being blocked from using the riverfront plaza outside Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, the building’s management relented Tuesday and moved the fences adorned with “no trespassing” signs under pressure from city officials.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/economy/tariff-impact-chicago-companies-1-billion-and-counting?utm_content=article1-headline&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250506″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/economy/tariff-impact-chicago-companies-1-billion-and-counting?utm_content%3Darticle1-headline%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250506&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw27TJctuSRhUi9wLKwV_uIn”>Tariff impact on Chicago companies: $1B and counting</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 6, 2025.

Chicago companies are bracing for a big impact from President Donald Trump’s tariffs, with $1 billion in additional costs this year anticipated for just five public companies.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-public-safety-committee-postpones-curfew-discussion-conversations-productive-alderman-brian-hopkins?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_06_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/chicago-city-council-public-safety-committee-postpones-curfew-discussion-conversations-productive-alderman-brian-hopkins?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_06_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0h8O9CcMi986ZyDVr03rPe”>Public Safety committee postpones discussion of curfew ordinance, though Hopkins calls recent conversations ‘productive’</a> – The Daily Line, May 6, 2025.

The City Council Committee on Public Safety punted on further discussion of Chair Brian Hopkins’ (2) ordinance to give Chicago police the power to implement temporary curfews to curb incidents of rowdy and sometimes violent “teen takeovers,” specifically those that have frequently occurred in Hopkins’ downtown ward and other areas of downtown during warmer months.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/mayor-brandon-johnson-pr-veteran-chicago-tourism-agency/?lctg=65045466C40C74A1E49E24F192&amp;utm_email=65045466C40C74A1E49E24F192&amp;active=no&amp;utm_source=listrak&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=https%3a%2f%2fwww.chicagotribune.com%2f2025%2f05%2f05%2fmayor-brandon-johnson-pr-veteran-chicago-tourism-agency%2f&amp;utm_campaign=trib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl&amp;utm_content=curated” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/mayor-brandon-johnson-pr-veteran-chicago-tourism-agency/?lctg%3D65045466C40C74A1E49E24F192%26utm_email%3D65045466C40C74A1E49E24F192%26active%3Dno%26utm_source%3Dlistrak%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_term%3Dhttps%253a%252f%252fwww.chicagotribune.com%252f2025%252f05%252f05%252fmayor-brandon-johnson-pr-veteran-chicago-tourism-agency%252f%26utm_campaign%3Dtrib-chicago_tribune-daywatch-nl%26utm_content%3Dcurated&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0asLq7UZ7PSDI5MxHyY-8x”>Mayor Brandon Johnson names PR veteran to lead Chicago tourism agency board</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 5, 2025.

Mayor Brandon Johnson has named media relations pro Guy “Chip” Chipparoni to lead the board of Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism agency responsible for attracting conventions, events and leisure travelers. Keiana Barrett, the recently named CEO of the Business Leadership Council, is on deck to serve as vice chair, according to records obtained by the Tribune.

<a href=”https://www.chicagobusiness.com/data-center/largest-construction-companies-chicago?utm-content=article6-readmore&amp;utm_source=morning-10&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=20250505″ style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagobusiness.com/data-center/largest-construction-companies-chicago?utm-content%3Darticle6-readmore%26utm_source%3Dmorning-10%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_campaign%3D20250505&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0YC5MITV0vMDG5GubpCm76″>Chicago’s two largest construction companies are experiencing blockbuster growth</a> – Crain’s Chicago Business, May 5, 2025.

Crain’s today released its second annual list of the largest construction companies in the Chicago area, and the top two local builders have only grown bigger.

<a href=”https://www.thedailyline.com/cook-county-treasurer-maria-pappas-study-business-homeowner-property-tax-appeals-transfer-burden-shift-assessments?utm_campaign=tdl_professional_05_05_25&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=thedailyline” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.thedailyline.com/cook-county-treasurer-maria-pappas-study-business-homeowner-property-tax-appeals-transfer-burden-shift-assessments?utm_campaign%3Dtdl_professional_05_05_25%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dthedailyline&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw02usNJA20S0q8yKlrSYgl-“>Treasurer’s office study finds business appeals shift tax bill burden by almost $2B to homeowners</a> – The Daily Line, May 5, 2025.

The Cook County Treasurer’s Office’s latest study showed nearly $2 billion in property taxes were shifted to homeowners from business owners as a result of successful appeals by business owners over three years.

<a href=”https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/broken-appeals-system-property-tax-bills-homeowners/” style=”text-decoration-line:none” target=”_blank” data-saferedirecturl=”https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/05/05/broken-appeals-system-property-tax-bills-homeowners/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1746987197204000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0U9LFiQTkCa5PQtBPGIuxw”>Appeals system raised property tax bills for Cook County homeowners, report says</a> – Chicago Tribune, May 5, 2025.

Cook County’s property tax appeal process shifted $1.91 billion in taxes from businesses onto homeowners over the last three years, exacerbating inequities in the city and suburbs, a new report found.

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