Illinois Leaders Travel to Japan to Promote the State
Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other Illinois leaders went on a six-day trade mission to Japan from October 5 to 10. 49 government and business leaders joined the governor in Japan, including House Speaker Chris Welch (D-Hillside), Senate President Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Director Kristen Richards, Intersect Illinois CEO Christy George, Illinois Manufacturers’ Association President and CEO Mark Denzler, ComEd CEO Gil Quiniones, and Related Midwest President Curt Bailey.
The Japan trip is part of a series of international trips led by Gov. Pritzker and aimed at promoting Illinois as a good location for foreign companies to establish or expand business in the U.S. The Governor’s Office is prioritizing foreign investments in key industry sectors laid out in the DCEO 2024 Economic Growth Plan: life sciences; quantum computing, AI, and microelectronics; clean energy production and manufacturing; advanced manufacturing; next generation agriculture and agricultural technology; and transportation, distribution, and logistics.
The trip may have already contributed to a successful business expansion. Sysmex America, a medical device subsidiary of Japanese company Sysmex, announced plans to expand in the Chicago Suburbs on the first day Illinois leaders were in Japan. Sysmex already operates facilities in Buffalo Grove, Vernon Hills, and Mundelein and plans to invest an additional $20.6M to expand its presence in Illinois and create 110 new full-time jobs. Following the news from Sysmex, Gov. Pritzker stated, “it is opportunities like this that make these trade missions so rewarding.”
Second Leak Reported at ADM CCS Facility
On September 27, Archer-Daniels-Midland Company’s (ADM) carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) facility in Decatur reported a second leak. The initial leak occurred in August, when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sent ADM a notice for violating the federal Safe Drinking Water Act at its Decatur CCS facility due to a lack of proper monitoring and failure to keep substances away from unauthorized areas. ADM reported the second leak to the EPA and has since paused CCS operations at the site.
ADM opened its CCS facility in Decatur in 2011. Since then, Illinois has been a leader in regulating the emerging industry of CCS. The General Assembly passed SB 1289, The Safety and Aid for the Environment in Carbon Capture and Sequestration (SAFE CCS) Act, at the end of the 2024 regular session, and it was signed into law by the governor on July 18. The legislation creates a regulatory framework for CCS operations in Illinois. Recognizing that CCS technology is still developing, the SAFE CCS Act places a moratorium on the construction of new CCS technology for two years, establishes a strict permitting process through the Illinois EPA for granting authority for new pipeline development, and sets a framework for emergency response. The bill received bipartisan support and was backed by both the CCS industry and environmental groups.
One component that some legislators pushed for but was not included in the SAFE CCS legislation is specific protections or even a complete moratorium on CCS operations in the Mahomet Aquifer region of Central Illinois. The news of two leaks at the ADM facility, located just south of the Mahomet Aquifer, has only heightened the concerns of Central Illinois’ lawmakers. Reps. Brandon Schweizer (R-Danville) and Carol Ammons (D-Urbana) each introduced legislation, HB 5870 and HB 5874, to prohibit new CCS operations on any federally designated sole source aquifer such as the Mahomet Aquifer. Sens. Paul Farci (D-Champaign) and Chapin Rose (R-Mahomet) expressed support for similar proposals. Legislators may look to pass a CCS trailer bill in fall veto session, a January lame duck session, or the 2025 regular session. They have until July 2026, when the new construction moratorium ends, to work out any remaining CCS issues.
Important Upcoming Dates – Statewide
November 5 – 2024 General Election
November 12-14 – Veto Session Week 1
November 19-21 – Veto Session Week 2
January 2025 – Lame Duck Session (Unconfirmed)
In the News
Illinois Valley House district up for grabs between Briel, Bishop – The Daily Line, October 11, 2024
The 76th House District centered in LaSalle County is one of the few House races this fall without an incumbent and the district’s moderate nature leaves Republicans hoping to pick up a seat.
5 more jurors added in Madigan corruption trial, but judge again warns of slow pace – Chicago Tribune, October 10, 2024
Five more jurors were chosen Thursday to hear evidence in the corruption trial of former House Speaker Michael Madigan, but the sluggish pace of questioning is threatening to delay opening statements in the landmark case for another week.
Greg Hinz: JB Pritzker, Brandon Johnson and a tale of two overseas trips – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 10, 2024
Both Mayor Brandon Johnson and Gov. JB Pritzker are out of the country today. Johnson is in London, Pritzker returning from a trip to Tokyo. But though both officials are on what they’ve described as foreign trade missions designed to bring new business here, a look at what each has disclosed about his trip reveals some striking differences.
On the ballot this year: Questions on millionaire property tax hike, reproductive health – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 10, 2024
Lawmakers in Illinois are asking voters to weigh in on three hot-button issues on their ballots this year: election interference, income taxes and reproductive health care.
Candidates in 59th House District discuss public safety – The Daily Herald, October 10, 2024
Public safety — and specifically the merits of the SAFE-T Act — was debated by the two candidates for the 59th District House seat during a recent endorsement interview in the Daily Herald.
State House hopefuls Katz Muhl, Behr differ on immigration and SAFE-T Act but align on gun control – The Daily Herald, October 10, 2024
Democratic state Rep. Tracy Katz Muhl and Republican Daniel Behr differ on immigration policy and the effectiveness of the state’s recent criminal justice reform law — but they both want more gun control.
Report: Illinois gets failing grade for its lobbyist disclosure system – WGIL, October 10, 2024
A new report says Illinois is one of 27 states that received a failing grade for its lobbyist disclosure system. The organization F Minus gives Illinois a grade of “F” for its lobbyist disclosure system, citing several failures.
Michael Madigan meets a few of the people who could decide his fate — just 3 jurors chosen – Chicago Sun Times, October 9, 2024
The ex-speaker also crossed paths with his onetime friend, Michael McClain. The relationship between the pair has been examined in multiple corruption trials in Chicago. Now they’re finally on trial together.
Woman whose sexual harassment claims rocked Springfield may be one of first witnesses in Madigan trial – Chicago Sun Times, October 8, 2024
Alaina Hampton’s testimony will be limited, with the judge telling attorneys to work out an agreement that would avoid getting into the details of her sexual harassment allegations in front of the jury.
GOP’s Jay Keeven promises progress over ‘nice lady’ opponent – The Telegraph, October 9, 2024
GOP legislative candidate Jay Keeven opposes supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
Property taxes, economic development are key issues in Illinois House 30th District race – Chicago Tribune, October 9, 2024
Both candidates seeking to represent the 30th District in the Illinois House say high property taxes and economic development are of top concern to voters in a district that encompasses multiple south suburban communities.
In the wake of Sonya Massey’s death, Springfield will test a new way to handle mental health calls – WBEZ Chicago, October 9, 2024
Massey’s death at the hands of police has prompted calls for change, but would those changes have been enough to prevent her killing?
News in briefs: Illinois sues TikTok; Ceremony to recognize new Springfield monument designation – The Daily Line, October 9, 2024
Attorney General Kwame Raoul filed a lawsuit against TikTok. And Illinois officials are set to hold a ceremony recognizing the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument.
Woman who reported sex harassment in Madigan camp to testify at ex-speaker’s racketeering trial – Chicago Tribune, October 8, 2024
The woman whose sexual harassment allegations against a Democratic political operative sent shockwaves through Springfield in 2018 will testify for the prosecution in the trial of ex-House speaker Michael Madigan — though details about the alleged misconduct will be kept from the jury.
IL Supreme Court study reveals 10,000 lawyers left jobs due to bullying – WCIA, October 8, 2024
Within the Illinois legal profession, bullying affects female and minority lawyers at much higher rates. On Oct. 1, the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism released a study on the impact of bullying in the Illinois legal profession. With over 6,000 Illinois lawyers as respondents, they’re using the data to raise awareness for National Bullying Prevention Month.
Rivals for 46th District state House seat compare their motivating issues – The Daily Herald, October 7, 2024
As they face each other in a second consecutive general election, two Villa Park residents running for the 46th District state House seat are again comparing their different motivations for seeking the office.
News in briefs: Garcia behind campaign opposing Project 2025; ILGOP hosting fundraiser with Trump ally – The Daily Line, October 8, 2024
U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-Ill.) is leading a national coalition advertising campaign opposing Project 2025. And the Illinois Republican Party will host a fundraiser this week with Mike Davis — a controversial ally of former President Donald Trump.
Madigan judge has experience with Shakespeare, Michael Jordan — and law used to target ex-House speaker – Chicago Sun Times, October 8, 2024
Judge John Blakey’s father wrote the federal racketeering law that has famously been used to take down organized crime figures. But Blakey also established himself as an authority on the subject long before Madigan’s historic trial.
The case against Mike Madigan, laid out in explosive court documents – Chicago Sun Times, October 7, 2024
The former Illinois house speaker is charged with a racketeering conspiracy and other crimes spanning five alleged schemes. While his trial is expected to begin this week, federal prosecutors have already detailed their case in a series of crucial court filings.
Job postings will look different in Illinois next year. Here’s what you need to know – Springfield State Journal-Register, October 8, 2024
Looking for a new job in the new year? An Illinois state law going into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, will soon give those scouring job boards more information on employment opportunities.
Judge known as ‘Son of RICO’ will use expertise overseeing Madigan trial – Chicago Tribune, October 8, 2024
Chicago has long been known as a place where there are no coincidences. But one of the biggest political racketeering cases in the city’s history — USA v. Michael J. Madigan — actually did land randomly at the bench of a judge nicknamed the “Son of RICO.”
House 51st candidates discuss Democratic control of Springfield – The Daily Herald, October 7, 2024
During a recent endorsement interview held by the Daily Herald, candidates for the 51st House District expressed differing views about Democratic control of Springfield, but both said they would be bipartisan.
Illinois State Rep. Jay Hoffman discusses amendment to raise income tax on state wealthiest – KMOX, October 7, 2024
Illinois voters will be asked in November if they would support a constitutional amendment raising the income tax on the state’s wealthiest of citizens in effect providing property tax relief.
As Madigan corruption trial kicks off, focus will be on those three taboo words: quid pro quo – Chicago Tribune, October 7, 2024
Chicago Ald. Daniel Solis was a year into his stunning turn as an FBI mole when he allegedly called up the most powerful politician in Illinois and floated three little words that are virtually taboo in the state’s political lexicon. Quid pro quo.
McLaughlin working to hold on to swing district seat against formidable challenger Peterson – The Daily Line, October 7, 2024
The Chicago suburbs have continued to trend toward Democrats in recent elections and now the pressure is falling in on Rep. Martin McLaughlin (R-Barrington Hills) to hold on to his seat and win a third term representing the northwest suburbs.
Gov. Pritzker’s big bucks help Illinois Democrats spend in down-ballot races – Chicago Sun Times, October 4, 2024
The Democratic Party is backing candidates in county races around the state a year after targeting, with success, local school board races to defeat candidates who wanted to ban books.
Democratic campaign ad prompts allegations of racism in 91st House District – The Pantagraph, October 5, 2024
A screenshot of Republican Illinois House candidate Desi Anderson’s recent Facebook post is shown. Anderson alleges that her opponent, Democratic incumbent state Rep. Sharon Chung of Bloomington, is using “racist altered images.” Chung denied the allegation, noting that the image of Anderson’s face was taken from a photo on the candidate’s own website.
GOP Sees Suburban Pickup Opportunity Over Freshman Benton – The Illinoize, October 6, 2024
In a narrow path for Republicans to gain any seats in the Illinois House this fall, they need candidates who can outperform the party in recent election cycles and “steal” a seat or two, as one GOP operative described it to us last week.
In race for Cook County’s top prosecutor, it’s Democrat Eileen O’Neill Burke vs. Republican Robert Fioretti – Chicago Sun Times, October 11, 2024
Burke is a former prosecutor, law division judge and appellate court justice. Fioretti last ran for the office as a Democrat in a failed bid to unseat State’s Attorney Kim Foxx during the 2020 primary.
Preckwinkle unveils nearly $9.9B budget proposal for 2025 in annual address – The Daily Line, October 11, 2024
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle introduced a $9.89 billion budget proposal for 2025 in an address during a special meeting of the board Thursday.
ShotSpotter Routinely Missed Reported Shootings, City Data Shows – South Side Weekly, October 9, 2024
In a recent 20-month period, more than 20% of shootings and reckless discharges in Chicago’s coverage area had no corresponding ShotSpotter alert.
Little Village Migrant Shelter Will Close Nov. 3, State Officials Announce – WTTW, October 10, 2024
Officials announced Thursday that a migrant shelter opened at the height of the crisis in a vacant Little Village CVS drugstore will close Nov. 3.
Chicago Marathon to give city a hefty economic boost, record number of runners – Chicago Sun Times, October 10, 2024
The annual marathon is one of the most important tourism events in Chicago and its economic impact could surpass the $543 million it generated last year.
Metra proposes $1.1 billion budget for 2025, as fewer riders return than expected – Chicago Tribune, October 11, 2024
Metra is proposing a $1.1 billion operating budget for 2025 that will continue to rely on federal COVID-19 relief money as riders — and the revenue they generate — have returned slower than the commuter rail agency expected.
City Council defers vote on $1.5 billion refinancing – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 9, 2024
The Chicago City Council on Wednesday deferred a vote on Mayor Brandon Johnson’s proposed $1.5 billion bond deal, a transaction intended to help close back-to-back shortfalls.
Preckwinkle presents ‘good news’ balanced budget for Cook County – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 10, 2024
Without implementing any new taxes, fees or layoffs, Cook County managed to close a $218.2 million budget gap originally forecasted for fiscal year 2025.
News in brief: County releases results of Environmental Justice Survey; Treasurer says property tax collections drop countywide – The Daily Line, October 10, 2024
Cook County released a report on a survey it took of residents’ environmental policy concerns, and the county treasurer said property tax delinquencies rose in the south suburbs following “record” tax bill spikes earlier this year.
City Council members implore state lawmakers to limit mayoral authority in wake of CPS shakeup – NBC Chicago, October 8, 2024
Some members of Chicago City Council are asking Illinois lawmakers to limit mayoral authority in regards to Board of Education appointments amid a massive shakeup that concluded with Mayor Brandon Johnson announcing six new appointments Monday.
Legal Battle Looms Over ShotSpotter As Mayor, Alderpeople Deeply Divided On Technology – Block Club Chicago, October 9, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson called the council’s push to reinstate ShotSpotter “illegal.” In protest, Ald. Anthony Beale sent dozens of Johnson’s ordinances to purgatory.
Three candidates vie to replace the late Karen Yarbrough as Cook County clerk – WBEZ Chicago, October 9, 2024
Democrat Monica Gordon has the backing of the Cook County Democratic Party and unions. She faces Republican Michelle Pennington and Libertarian Christopher Laurent.
Council to consider bond refinancing ordinances, hold special meetings on CPS board, ShotSpotter contract – The Daily Line, October 9, 2024
The City Council will meet on Wednesday at 10 a.m. to consider final approval of two major bond refinancing ordinances recently passed by the finance committee that are key to the city getting its budget shortfall under control.
Zoning committee approves ordinance to let alternate members fill vacant spots on Zoning Board of Appeals – The Daily Line, October 9, 2024
The City Council’s zoning committee approved a measure on Tuesday intended to shore up Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) membership when there’s empty posts.
Johnson asks department heads to model layoff scenarios in bid to close budget gap – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 8, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s team has told city department leaders to prepare to cull their staff budgets through what his office has described as an “exercise” in case layoffs are needed to close the city’s $982 million 2025 budget shortfall.
Johnson cancels 2 months of police academy classes, orders layoff lists to cut $75M – Chicago Sun Times, October 8, 2024
At an emergency Cabinet meeting Tuesday, Chief Operating Officer John Roberson ordered other department heads to identify personnel cuts and to submit their proposals by Friday. The goal is to find $75 million more in savings in 2025.
Mayor Brandon Johnson won’t veto ShotSpotter ordinance after all – Chicago Sun Times, October 8, 2024
The City Council’s ordinance aims to compel the city to sign a new contract for gunshot detection technology. Johnson said it’s illegal, but his decision not to veto avoids more council conflict.
O’Neill Burke focuses on experience, Fioretti on migrant crime as they vie for Cook County state’s attorney – Chicago Tribune, October 9, 2024
As the Democratic nominee for Cook County state’s attorney, Eileen O’Neill Burke has the inside track to take over an office that hasn’t been led by a Republican in 28 years.
Chicago’s $1 Billion Budget Hole Exacerbated by School Turmoil – Bloomberg, October 8, 2024
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson faces one of the biggest tests of his administration as turmoil with the school district — marked by an abrupt mass resignation by the board — threatens to further erode the already-stretched finances of the nation’s third-largest city.
Cook County tax collections tumble to a 10-year low – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 9, 2024
Cook County’s tax collection rate fell to its lowest level in more than a decade as south suburban property owners felt the strain of record-high increases and a tight turnaround between tax bills.
South Side Officials Raise $2.5 Million In Effort To Keep ShotSpotter In Chicago – Block Club Chicago, October 8, 2024
A committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago is also pledging to help extend ShotSpotter’s use in the city weeks after the gunshot detection service was phased out.
News in brief: Preckwinkle to give budget address this week; Zoning committee to consider measure to let alternates fill in for vacancies on ZBA – The Daily Line, October 7, 2024
The Cook County Board President’s budget proposal for 2025 will be unveiled this week, and the City Council zoning committee will consider a measure intended to shore up Zoning Board of Appeals membership when there’s empty posts.
Opinion: The city’s $1.5B bond refinancing plan is a no-brainer. Here’s why. – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 7, 2024
Last Friday, Crain’s published Comptroller Susana Mendoza’s op-ed, “Before City Hall launches this $1.5B bond issue, stop and think.” Mendoza’s op-ed regarding the contemplated $1.5 billion bond refinancing is filled with regrettable errors and patently false claims. The refinancing ordinance currently up for consideration by the City Council is a standard part of responsible debt management for Chicago that will save the city money and reduce our debt load.
Mayor Johnson’s budget timeline delay spells difficult months ahead for Chicago’s financial conundrum – Chicago Tribune, October 6, 2024
Mayor Brandon Johnson is pushing back the start of the annual city budget process, leaving himself and aldermen in a tight spot: They need to quickly overcome the acrimony among elected officials at City Hall to find a way to close a daunting 2025 deficit that has been barreling down on Chicago for years.
Developer gets $29M for Lincoln Park apartments – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 4, 2024
A local developer has scored financing for a planned mid-rise luxury apartment building in east Lincoln Park.
Opinion: Before City Hall launches this $1.5B bond issue, stop and think – Crain’s Chicago Business, October 4, 2024
Just because the city of Chicago can borrow more money doesn’t mean it should. The City Council is scheduled to vote Oct. 9 on a $1.5 billion bond issue originally designed to refinance $980 million worth of debt.
Committees to consider measures on fire department bereavement policy, pedicab restrictions and federal health department grant funds– The Daily Line, October 7, 2024
The City Council Committee on Budget and Government Operations will meet Monday morning and consider the appropriation of federal health department grant funds, and the Committee on License and Consumer Protection will vote on an ordinance to regulate pedicabs.
Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson endorses Republican Fioretti for Cook County state’s attorney – Chicago Sun Times, October 6, 2024
The Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. says Bob Fioretti “championed our community for many years as an advocate, a civil rights lawyer, an alderman, and a friend.” Fioretti faces Democrat Eileen O’Neill Burke in the election.
