McLean County Times

Today, July 21, a live town hall will be held at 6:00 p.m. featuring State Representatives Dennis Tipsword and Jason R. Bunting. The event aims to discuss the spring legislative session and provide updates from Springfield. Participants can join via Facebook Live without needing an account.

Illinois has been ranked last in financial transparency among all 50 states, according to a report by Truth in Accounting. The state's delay in publishing its fiscal year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports contributed to this ranking. The 2022 report included a disclaimer of opinion due to auditors' inability to verify the accuracy of the financial statements.

Senator Chris Balkema expressed concern over Illinois Democrats' handling of financial transparency and stressed the importance of accurate reporting for public trust and budgetary decisions.

Electricity rates have risen significantly this summer, attributed to energy grid capacity auctions and power supply strain. Senate Republicans blame Democrat policies for these issues. Senator Balkema is advocating for an energy legislative package that includes creating a task force on state energy policies, repealing fossil fuel plant closure dates, and reducing permitting delays.

In response to recent flooding in Texas, an Illinois Urban Search and Rescue team has been deployed under a mutual aid agreement among states. The team consists of 39 rescuers from various fire departments and will assist for up to two weeks.

ComEd has established a Bill Payment Assistance Program offering grants up to $500 for income-eligible customers with overdue accounts and up to $1000 for qualified non-profit organizations facing similar challenges.