Illinois
Amid Economic Uncertainty, State Tax Revenues Decline
If there’s good news in April's numbers, though, it might be that most states were already planning for softer revenue growth in fiscal 2024 and many have robust rainy day funds to weather a potential downturn. Plus, more news to use from around the country in this week's State and Local Roundup.
'I Don’t Know Where I’m Going to Go': HUD Displaces Even More Residents in This Small City
HUD already closed four public housing complexes in the Cairo, Ill., area. Now the federal agency is set to demolish a high-rise, gutting the city of some of its last affordable housing.
Voters Will Decide This Fall on Whether to Add the Right to Unionize to One State's Constitution
The proposed amendment would guarantee workers in Illinois the "fundamental right" to collectively bargain over wages, hours and working conditions as well as to protect their "economic welfare."
A Local Government Plans to Pay Off Millions in Residents' Medical Debt
Cook County, Illinois, where Chicago is located, is launching the initiative using American Rescue Plan dollars and hopes to wipe out hundreds of millions of dollars in unpaid bills.
Cities With the Lowest Home Prices in the US
Housing prices are soaring and interest rates are rising, but median home prices in these places are less than $185,000.
In a State Renowned for Its Budget Mess, Glimmers of a Turnaround
After decades of mismanagement, analysts say Illinois is “heading in the right direction” but still has work to do.
States Seek Waiver for $380M in Unemployment Loan Interest
The push for a break from the federal government on the borrowing costs comes as Republicans in Congress are increasingly scrutinizing aid for states.
The Indictment of the Nation’s Longest-serving Legislative Leader
The federal prosecution of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan is the latest, and biggest, development in a push to crack down on corruption in Chicago.
Legislation Seeks to Block Secrecy With Economic Development Deals
Bills put forward in at least three states aim to ensure there's transparency around tax breaks and other incentives.
Only State That Tapped Emergency Fed Program Pays Off $2B Loan
The program was set up in the early days of the pandemic to help steady the then-rattled world of municipal finance. Now, just one government agency still has debt from it outstanding.
Bills Modeled on Texas Abortion Law Target Sex Abusers, Gun Sellers
California’s governor wants to use Texas tactics to go after assault weapons sold in his state, while an Illinois state lawmaker seeks to penalize sex offenders.
As Food Banks Struggle to Feed More Families at Thanksgiving, Localities Step Up to Help
Food shortages and soaring prices have hampered many charities' ability to collect and buy enough items. Municipal governments are investing new federal funds to boost these efforts.
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