(SPRINGFIELD) Lawmakers’ projections for revenues in the coming year are not as high as Governor J.B. Pritzker’s, therefore raising questions about how much money will be on hand during this year’s budget debate. The General Assembly’s bipartisan Commission on Government Forecasting & Accountability this week released a new fiscal year 2026 revenue projection that is $737 million short of what the Governor introduced last month. While the actual difference is $1.2 billion, Pritzker’s plan calls for a series of revenue adjustments.
(SPRINGFIELD) A new proposal in Illinois law to add some oversight of those who homeschool their children has been introduced in Springfield. Known as the Homeschool Act, it comes after an investigation last year found that Illinois is among a small number of states that place virtually no rules on parents who homeschool their children. Under the new law, families would be required to inform their school districts when they decide to homeschool their children, plus the parents and guardians would need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. If there are concerns by local education authorities, the parents would be required to share evidence of their teaching materials and student work.
(CHICAGO) The 115-year-old Boy Scouts of America has officially changed its name to “Scouting America” in an effort to rebrand as “gender-neutral.” While last month’s move was made to break down all barriers to welcome everyone, regardless of who they are, it’s a move that’s not surprising to many, as the Scouts organization has spent the past decade promoting its “inclusivity” strategy. But the numbers show membership is down to just over one million nationwide, a drop from nearly three million members 17 years ago.
(SPRINGFIELD) A couple of reminders from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources : the spring wild turkey hunting lottery sales begin over-the-counter next Tuesday, March 11th, on a first come, first served basis. The permits will be sold at statewide license vendors until quotas are exhausted or until the segment of sales closes. Also, fishing licenses are now on sale statewide. Illinois residents 16 and older can buy a fishing license for only $15. For a full list of fees, season dates, & much more, go to the dnr.illinois.gov website online.