(SPRINGFIELD) The challenge against Illinois’ gun and ammunition magazine ban continues in the Southern District of Illinois federal court as attorneys from the four plaintiffs groups suing the state will meet with the Judge later this month on February 28th for a scheduling conference. That’s when they’re expected to discuss the witnesses, experts, and evidence they plan to present at trial. Meanwhile, it was announced yesterday that the U.S. Supreme Court now has requests to hear multiple cases that also challenge the ban.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Joint Committee on Administrative Rules has now delayed approval of the new Paid Leave for All Workers Act rules until the group’s March hearing. If approved as is, the law allows workers to earn up to 40 hours of leave from work each year. The Illinois Department of Labor plans webinars about the policy February 22nd and March 4th.
(SPRINGFIELD) Following the two-and-a-half year prison sentence handed down yesterday to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan’s Chief of Staff and House Clerk Tim Mapes, statewide Republicans are demanding more ethics reforms in Springfield. Among the proposed GOP measures is one prohibiting elected officials from using political campaign donations to pay for criminal defense, while another one would suspend a retired lawmaker’s annuity payments if they are charged with a felony. Former Speaker of the House Madigan is still receiving his $12,600 monthly pension while he awaits trial.
(SPRINGFIELD) With the 2024 Illinois State Fair now less than six months away, officials are reminding statewide residents that the sale is underway for unlimited rides at this year’s annual event. This includes both Mega and Jumbo Passes, valid for the carnival midway, adventure village, and the giant slide. Plus vendors or exhibitors are encouraged to sign up as soon as possible. The Illinois State Fair in Springfield will run for eleven days and nights, August 8th through 18th. For more information, go to the statefair.illinois.gov website.