Illinois News & Current Events | Public News Service

According to KFF data, in 2024, Illinois had almost 2.4 million total Medicare beneficiaries. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, October 21, 2024

Medicare plan for IL residents has changes

Open enrollment for Medicare ends on Dec 7. The federal health insurance program is for anyone aged 65 or older. Some people younger than 65 with …

The League of Women Voters of Illinois said voter suppression tactics include impersonating an election official and spreading false information related to voting machine tabulation. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents urged to know their rights ahead of voting

This year's Election Day will be one of the most closely watched in history, and one concern of Illinois election officials is safety at polling …

According to the U.S. Energy Administration, Illinois is the nation's sixth-largest energy-consuming and eleventh-largest energy producing state. (Adobe Stock)

Passive House standards: a solution for highly efficient affordable housing

By Audrey Henderson for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the average Illinois farm is 375 acres in size and grows mostly grain, corn and soybeans. In terms of livestock, 22% have beef cattle, 3% raise swine and 1% have dairy cows. (Adobe Stock)

IL farmers face another hold for federal funding

By Grace Hussain for Sentient.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration…

According to the Prison Policy Institute, Illinois's incarceration rate of 433 per 100,000 people ranks the state as having nearly the highest lockup rate of any democratic country. (Adobe Stock)

Higher cancer rates among IL's incarcerated population

Two specific types of cancer are showing up in high numbers among people in jail and prison and Illinois is no exception. A new study found a lack …

U.S. News and World Report said Illinois ranks 39th in the country for juvenile incarceration. (Adobe Stock)

IL juvenile rights group takes action for education behind bars

A class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of young people with disabilities serving time in the Illinois Department of Corrections. The …

America's Health Rankings rated Illinois in 38th place in the country for the highest number of residents aged 60 and above who have faced food insecurity. (Adobe Stock)

IL seniors face mental, physical roadblocks to nutritious meals

The baby boomer generation is getting older and the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular access to nutritious meals, can …

According to a 2019 Illinois Department of Health report, almost 12% of new mothers were diagnosed with postpartum depression. Of those, nearly 60% took prescribed medication for depression treatment and almost 32% received counseling. (Adobe Stock)

IL moms have added options to address postpartum disorder

A new baby should bring a time of happiness for a family but what is frequently dismissed as the "baby blues" is a mental health condition called post…

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says up to 500 species of native bees live in the state and contribute to the existence of plant species and agricultural crop production. (Adobe Stock)

IL bee population stunted by pesticides

One of nature's hardest workers is facing extinction from repeated exposure to a dangerous pesticide. Scientists conducting CT scans reveal …

The Illinois State Election Board reported nearly 5 million residents, a little more than 98% of registered voters cast their vote in the 2020 presidential election. (Adobe Stock)

IL voters welcome voting options

Illinois voters have several ways to cast their ballot in the upcoming election, whether by mail, in person or early voting. The Illinois Policy …

IL small businesses hope tax deduction stays afloat

A large tax hike could appear soon, that would affect Illinois' small businesses still rebounding from the pandemic. One group hopes Congress will …

More than 15,000 home health and personal care aides will soon be needed, according to the Illinois Dept. of Employment Security

Seeking younger generation for IL health care jobs

The healthcare employee pool is shrinking - and as the medical profession faces increases in demand for mental health treatment, chronic illness …

According to Energy.gov, over 50% of the electric power generation workforce in Illinois was in wind, solar, and hydroelectric. (Adobe Stock)

IL energy jobs growth is strong, lacks female workers

Rising demands for clean energy efficiency are producing a wealth of work opportunities in Illinois. These in-demand jobs are also promoting a …

According to the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice 2023 Annual report, the average age of youth in the state's criminal justice system is 17. (Adobe Stock)

IL juvenile justice court alternative proves successful

Anyone age 18 or younger accused of violating Illinois law, who has formal charges filed against them, has historically had their case tried in a …

According to the site Tech-stack, AI algorithms can forecast energy needs, helps improve the reliability of solar energy supply and balance the grid load. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents can benefit from merging of solar and AI

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pu…

In 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranked Chicago eighth on an annual ENERGY STAR Top Cities list. On average, ENERGY STAR buildings use 35% less energy and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 35% compared to typical buildings. (Adobe Stock)

Innovative construction projects address short-term, long-term IL energy needs

By Audrey Henderson for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

The USDA says in Illinois in 2021, there were 9.50 billion cubic feet of live trees in forests. (Adobe Stock)

IL environmental group monitors forests amid Biden legislation

The Biden Administration issued an executive order in 2022 to strengthen and protect America's forests and old-growth trees. Old-growth trees have …

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the greatest number of Illinois female voters are between the ages of 55 and 64. (Adobe Stock)

IL women voters continue to outpace male counterparts

A Democratic woman of color is vying against an embattled former Republican president in this year's historic Nov. 5 election and political analysts …

Pew Research data show in 2021, 62.5 million Latinos resided in the United States in 2021, accounting for 19% of the total U.S. population. (Adobe Stock)

IL Latino communities advocate for a cleaner environment

A survey of 760 registered Latino voters found 87% of Latinos support projects to produce a cleaner, natural world. The poll, conducted in 10 states…

According to newsbug.info for Illinois, the median monthly rent is $1,627 and almost 33% of Illinoisans are renters. (Adobe Stock)

New IL law widens tenant-landlord divide

A controversial Illinois law signed earlier this month has pushed landlords and tenants even further apart. Gov. JB Pritzker signed the Landlord …

Illinois is the nation's fifth-largest electricity producer, and typically sends about one-fifth of the power it generates to other states over interstate transmission lines. Illinois generates more electricity from nuclear energy than any other state.(Adobe Stock)

New study says IL needs new less expensive energy options

A new study warns that Illinois will face future energy shortages and a higher risk of blackouts, unless investments are made soon in cleaner energy…

IL poverty rates remain high despite landmark legislation

The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 marked its 60th anniversary this week. The landmark legislation started the war on poverty in the United States …

According to Reuters, pro-Palestinian college protest demands include a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to U.S. military assistance for Israel, and divestment from businesses that profit from the war. (Adobe Stock)

Pro-Palestinian groups voice concerns about DNC protest plans

This week, protesters could outnumber delegates at the Democratic National Convention starting today in Chicago. The demonstrators will include tens …

The industry group Illinois Pork Producers reported hog production and processing supports nearly 58,000 jobs in the state. (Adobe Stock)

Unsafe IL feed facilities harm workers, compromise public health

A new study shows more than 1 million tons of animal waste is produced every year in the U.S. Consumers' desire for more animal protein and better …

According to the Chicago Metropolitan Planning Agency, Chicago and Cook County produce the most total emissions. (Adobe Stock)

IL environmentalists hope federal grant lowers emissions

The fight against the effects of climate change in Illinois has more help. Under the Biden Administration's pollution reduction plan, the U.S…

According to the Illinois State Water Survey, extreme rainfall and floods can adversely affect drinking water and wastewater systems, and cause foodborne diseases from sewage and population displacement. (Adobe Stock)

Excessive IL rains stir conversation on preparedness

Illinois generally sees its hottest and wettest months during the summer, and climate change is making them more intense. The University of …

The Illinois Department of Public Health requires parents to supply proof of an exam from an eye disease specialist or licensed optometrist, administered within the previous 12 months before the school year begins. (Adobe Stock)

Early eye exams ensure healthy sight for IL children

Notebooks, writing tools and laptops are standard supplies on a parent's back-to-school shopping list. But one important appointment that can easily …

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the average size of a farm, including hobby farms, is 375 acres with grain, corn and soybeans as the main crops. (Adobe Stock)

IL farmers markets benefit communities, economy

This is National Farmers Market Week, as fresh jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables draw thousands of people to more than 8,000 farmers markets …

According to a report by Open Doors, international students who attend Illinois universities come primarily from China, India, Nigeria, South Korea and Taiwan. (Adobe Stock)

U.S. politics affect school choices of some international students

As people head back to college soon, professors may notice an increase in the number of international students. A new report found enrollment numbers …

Multiple carbon capture projects have been proposed in recent years in Illinois. (Wolfgang Weiser/Adobe Stock)

Illinois creates guardrails for growing carbon capture industry

Illinois Gov. J. B. Pritzker has signed a bill to regulate new carbon capture, storage and pipeline projects. The technology involves capturing …

A report from the Illinois State Board of Education reveals the elementary school ratio of students to teacher is 17-to-1, and 18-to-1 for high school educators. (Adobe Stock)

Teachers' conference unites IL educators for improving schools

Some Illinois educators made their way to Texas this week for an American Federation of Teachers convention. AFT is one of the nation's largest labor …

According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, the smallest bird that resides in the state, at 3 to 3 1/4 inches in length, is the ruby-throated hummingbird. The largest wild bird is the trumpeter swan, with a 7-foot wingspan. (Adobe Stock)

Study finds IL birds feel the effects of climate change

A new study by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests the long-term effects of climate change could create a higher risk of extinction f…

The Illinois State Board of Education report card said O'Fallon Township High School HSD #203 is currently only funded at 64%. (Adobe Stock)

Arts funding at IL high school is strong - for now

By Kristy Alpert for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News Service Colla…

Water parks are a good way to keep cool in the summer, but the Illinois Department of Public Health reminds parents to always supervise children playing in or near the water. (Adobe Stock)

Experts: Being prepared is best way to enjoy a safe summer in Illinois

Summer is usually a fun time to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends but experts say Illinoisans should take precautions to keep a day of fun in…

According to America's Health Rankings, Illinois ranks 42nd among states for fruit and vegetable consumption among people over age 60, but the same group lags in terms of getting healthy sleep and sufficient physical activity. (Adobe Stock)

IL organization seeks extra hands to serve older adults

Isolation and a lack of regular nutritious meals are circumstances many older adults find themselves in. One organization is working to remedy this - …

According to health policy site KFF, in May 2022, almost 33% of adults in Illinois reported experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depressive disorder, and nearly 33% did not receive counseling or therapy. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Mental health crisis hotline ineffective

Addressing mental illness in America is a source of continued debate and a new report outlined areas in need of change. The study detailed the role …

According to the financial site Forbes Advisor, Illinois ranks 20th in the nation for struggling most with credit card debt. (Adobe Stock)

IL financial jobs seen at risk with possible merger

Two of the largest credit card companies in the United States want federal regulators to greenlight a merger and the deal has been met with skepticism…

According to the U.S. Department of Labor Mine Safety and Health Administration, abandoned mines may still house containers with leaking toxic chemicals or explosives which can detonate without warning.(Adobe Stock)

Abandoned IL coal mines pose health, environmental complications

New legislation in Congress would hold coal producers accountable for cleaning up the mine sites they have abandoned, including tens of thousands of …

Illinois is bordered by 880 miles of water - the Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Wabash River. according to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. (Adode Stock)

Tug-of-war for more access to IL streams continues

Federal law and Illinois law are at odds over ownership, access, and use of the state's streams, lakes & rivers - and the Legislature failed to pass …

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation's 2024 Kids Count Book, 425,000 Illinois children live in poverty. (Adobe Stock)

Kids Count Data Book shows IL children fare well in health care, lag in academics

The 2024 Kids Count Data Book was released this week. The publication is a 50-state report of data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation about the …

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports between April and July 2023, unemployment among youths nationwide rose by 826,000. (Adobe Stock)

IL study finds youths of color have fewer summer job offers

Summer jobs are a boost for companies needing seasonal help. But Black and Latino youths are not seeing the opportunities come their way. A report …

A National Abortion Federation report revealed in 2021, nationwide incidences of stalking at abortion clinics rose by 600%. Assault and battery cases increased by 128%. (Adobe Stock)

IL lawmakers boost funding for Planned Parenthood

The Illinois General Assembly has just passed a $53 billion state budget which includes a boost in funding for Planned Parenthood. Reproductive …

IL residents urged to prepare now for coming heat waves

A new report supports data on the effects of global climate change, finding that, within a one-year span starting in May 2023, the cause of frequent …

The federal government collects more than $1 billion every year through an excise tax on items such as licenses, guns, arrows and fishing tackle to fund wildlife conservation programs. (Adobe Stock)

Conservationists: Farm Bill crucial to future access to IL wildlife habitat

As Congress prepares to start work on a new Farm Bill this week, hunters and anglers say billions of dollars in investments in private-lands …

A U.S. Department of Justice report noted 20% of the staff sexual misconduct occurred in a correction facility's cell, its commissary, cafeteria, or workshop. (Adobe Stock)

IL juvenile justice group says lawsuit addresses years of abuse

A lawsuit filed this month against the Illinois Departments of Corrections and Juvenile Justice might help tip the scales for legislation pending in S…

Planners said one of the biggest challenges in preparing for electric vehicles is changing planning and zoning codes to accommodate EV charging stations. (Adobe Stock)

Regional program helps Chicago-area communities become 'EV Ready'

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Mark Richardson for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Netw…

A study by the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health found lead pipes were used, and often required, before being banned in the U.S. in 1986. Many cities still use lead water pipes installed prior to the ban. (Adobe Stock)

A spigot of federal money opens, clean water one goal

The Environmental Protection Agency said the country's aging systems of water pipes are hotbeds for chemical and lead contamination. More lead …

Suzy Flack's son Andrew became an advocate for medical-aid-in-dying by creating a video, blog and podcast before dying of cancer in 2022 at age 34. (Photo courtesy Suzy Flack)

Illinois mother whose son died asks lawmakers to pass medical aid-in-dying bill

A Chicago mom who lost her son to cancer in 2022 is using the occasion of Mother's Day to call on Illinois lawmakers to pass medical aid-in-dying legi…

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PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - October 22, 2024

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