McLean County Times

The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan continues in federal court in Chicago. Prosecutors have presented more wiretaps, alleging that Madigan used his legislative influence to benefit his law firm. The recordings include conversations between Madigan and former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis, who was aware of sensitive real estate transactions and had the ability to direct business to certain law firms.

Solis cooperated with federal investigators by recording these conversations, which are part of the prosecution's effort to demonstrate Madigan's misuse of power for personal gain. The trial is expected to last several more weeks, after which Madigan’s defense will present their case.

In other news, Illinois state tax receipts showed a decline in November 2024 compared to the previous year. This has raised concerns about the state's financial stability as it faces a projected $3.2 billion deficit for the upcoming fiscal year. The state has increased spending significantly over recent years but now struggles with reduced revenue following the depletion of one-time COVID relief funds.

Employment trends in Illinois also pose challenges, with 11 out of 13 metropolitan regions experiencing stagnant or declining job figures over the past five years. This trend impacts both families facing job losses and state revenue from income taxes.

Additionally, Rep. Bunting attended the Iroquois Economic Development Association Quarterly Meeting at Shagbark Golf & Country Club last week, expressing gratitude towards Angel Crawford and her board for organizing the event.

Illinois currently has an unpaid bill backlog totaling $2,458,310,729 as processed by the Illinois Comptroller's office. This figure excludes unfunded debts such as pension liabilities exceeding $100 billion.

Other headlines from Illinois include researchers exploring space-based manufacturing programs, a reduction in controlled pheasant-hunting permits announced by IDNR affecting Iroquois County sites, finalists revealed for a new state flag design, holiday safety tips from the American Red Cross, popular holiday movies set in Illinois gaining attention this season, and applications being accepted for Fire Station Grants by the State Fire Marshal.