ISACo

The Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee held a lengthy subject matter hearing on October 29 to review major amendments to Senate Bill 25, the proposed Energy Omnibus Bill. Testimony highlighted sharp divisions over battery storage costs, local siting authority, and expanded regulatory powers for the Illinois Commerce Commission. ISACo is monitoring the legislation closely due to its potential impacts on county zoning, revenues, and energy infrastructure planning. Click on the title for additional information.

As Halloween approaches, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal (OSFM) urges everyone to celebrate safely and keep fire hazards in mind while enjoying the season’s festivities. Decorations, costumes, and candles all add to the fun, but they can also increase the risk of fire and injuries if not handled carefully.

HB 767 makes wide-ranging updates to Illinois laws governing public health and pharmacy practices. It expands the duties of the Department of Public Health’s Medical Director, strengthens the Immunization Advisory Committee, and requires insurance coverage for vaccines and medical countermeasures recommended by the state. The bill also limits pharmacists from administering certain vaccines to children under age seven, increases oversight of pharmacy benefit managers, and provides a grant to a statewide pharmacy association. Additionally, beginning January 1, 2026, it will be an unfair insurance practice to solicit accident or health policies from seniors with diminished capacity or a health care power of attorney. Click on the title for additional information.

House Bill 577, as amended, would create the Immigration Safe Zones Act, directing the Attorney General to develop model policies by 2026 that limit state and local cooperation with federal immigration enforcement in facilities such as schools, hospitals, libraries, Secretary of State offices, and courts. The measure also requires state agencies and publicly funded institutions to remove unnecessary questions about citizenship or immigration status from forms and applications, ensuring access to essential services for all Illinois residents regardless of immigration status. Click on the title for more information.

Labor and environmental groups are backing the Clean & Reliable Grid Affordability Act, a sweeping energy proposal under consideration during the General Assembly’s veto session. The bill would fund large-scale battery storage projects to stabilize electricity prices, expand renewable energy capacity, and give regulators greater authority to plan for Illinois’ long-term power needs. Supporters say the measure will create union jobs and strengthen the grid, while critics warn of higher costs for ratepayers. Click on the title to view the story.