McLean County Times

Last month, Illinois residents participated in the National Day of Prayer, with many joining in prayer across the state. A call for continued prayers for Illinois was extended to the community.

Feedback on tax relief priorities was gathered, revealing that 75.6% of respondents find property taxes to be the most burdensome. Personal income taxes and sales taxes followed at 13.1% and 11.3%, respectively. Efforts are underway to address these concerns while maintaining essential services.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed into law a record government spending plan totaling over $55 billion—a significant increase over six years. During legislative sessions, attempts were made to introduce new taxes affecting families and small businesses, which were temporarily halted but may resurface.

An open house event facilitated discussions on pressing issues, attended by Representatives Jason Bunting and Dennis Tipsword among others.

The Illinois Secretary of State's office announced technology grants exceeding $1 million for 88 public libraries in underserved areas. The funding aims to enhance technology access through upgrades and expanded resources.

Former House Speaker Michael Madigan received a sentence of 7½ years in federal prison along with a $2.5 million fine following his conviction on corruption charges involving racketeering and bribery linked to utility company ComEd.

Governor Pritzker defended Illinois' sanctuary state policies during his testimony in Washington D.C., amidst criticism that these policies impose financial burdens on citizens while limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

A new DMV center has opened in Lacon, IL, aimed at improving service accessibility for local residents.