This week's Illinois State Association of Counties (ISACo) News and Views e-newsletter shares the General Assembly's schedule for the week of May 12-16, includes a new episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast, links to ISACo's new webpage featuring information about generative AI, shares information on how to apply for Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grants, highlights ten nonprofits that received charitable trust fund grants, links to articles ISACo staff is reading to stay informed, makes county officials and staff aware of available grant funding for outdoor fitness courts in counties, conveys information about the upcoming National Association of Counties (NACo) Annual Conference and upcoming webinar opportunities, highlights ISACo corporate partner ClearGov and invites counties to join ISACo.

General Assembly Schedule This Week

The House and Senate are in session this week. The House will meet May 13-16, and the Senate will meet May 13-15. The next significant deadline is May 23, which is the date by which House bills must be approved by the Senate and Senate bills must be approved by the House. The House Calendar is available here. The Senate Calendar is available here.

A complete list of ISACo-tracked bills is available via this link. ISACo staff continues to keep this resource for counties updated and current following the introduction of numerous amendments. ISACo-tracked bills are searchable by number, category, keyword, or whether they would create a mandate or reduce revenues. ISACo has taken positions on many of these bills in accordance with our County Platform. 

New Episode of ISACo's Counties Count! Podcast 

This episode of the Counties Count! Podcast, discusses HB 3363—landmark legislation that could reshape how public defense works across Illinois. The podcast breaks down what the creation of a State Public Defender’s Office means for counties, from shifting appointment authority to concerns about funding mandates and local control. We’ll explore why the bill is being proposed, what’s at stake for county governments, and how the debate reflects broader questions about justice, equity, and the future of criminal defense in Illinois. Whether you’re a state policymaker, county official or engaged citizen, this episode unpacks the political and practical implications of a major reform effort. Click on the image below to listen to the podcast. 

New Generative AI Resource Page

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming how governments operate and deliver services—and counties are no exception. As this technology becomes more accessible and powerful, it’s important that county officials and staff have a clear understanding of what generative AI is, how it works, and the considerations that come with its use in the public sector.

ISACo has created a new webpage designed as a resource hub for Illinois counties. Here, you’ll find foundational information about generative AI, emerging policy frameworks, legal and ethical considerations, and practical guidance for responsible adoption. Whether your county is exploring AI to improve internal efficiency, enhance public communication, or support decision-making, this webpage intends to support informed and thoughtful implementation aligned with public values and community needs. Click on the image below to access the webpage.

Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grants

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is accepting applications for Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship grants through June 13, 2025. The goal of the grant program is to increase the delivery of much-needed stewardship activities to natural areas protected within the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC) system.

The press release is available via this link.  

Ten Small Nonprofits to Receive $200,000 In Charitable Trust Grants

Ten small Illinois nonprofits are receiving a combined $200,000 in grants through the Charitable Trust Stabilization Program, which is managed by State Treasurer Michael Frerichs' office.

Charitable Trust grants help nonprofits fulfill their missions to serve people in need by providing housing, food, and workforce and economic development assistance. 

The press release is available via this link. 

What We're Reading

Illinois Congresswoman Robin Kelly running for US Senate (WICS)

IDPH: Six Measles Cases Confirmed in State, includes Four in Southern Illinois (WPSD)

State Revenue Projections Improve as Economic Uncertainty Grows (Capitol News Illinois)

Grant Funding Available for Outdoor Fitness Courts by National Fitness Campaign (NFC)

ISACo is excited to share an opportunity for county officials and staff to benefit their counties. County officials are invited to apply for an outdoor fitness court through ISACo's corporate sponsorship with National Fitness Campaign. 

National Fitness Campaign (NFC) and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois have announced $750,000 in new grant funding to communities and schools in the state of Illinois. This funding will be allocated to support counties across the state to join the growing National Fitness Campaign, building healthy infrastructure for smart communities and schools of the future. 

If you are not familiar with the Campaign, the program is designed to bring world-class healthy infrastructure to public spaces, along with consulting, funding and community programming support. 

Information about National Fitness Campaign (NFC) is available via this link. 

Grant application information is available via this link. 

Click on the photo below to watch a video about NFC!

Please contact Member Services and Communications Manager Tiffani Homer at thomer@isacoil.org if you have additional questions. 

NACo Annual Conference 

The NACo Annual Conference is the premier gathering of elected and appointed officials from the nation’s 3,069 counties, parishes and boroughs. 

This year, the conference will take place from July 11, 2025, to July 14, 2025, in Philadelphia, PA.

County officials and staff will have the opportunity to participate in discussions of federal policies impacting counties, workshops lifting up county best practices, engaging general sessions, mobile tours across our host county and more.

This is a one-of-a-kind advocacy opportunity to strengthen our intergovernmental partnerships for years to come.

ISACo and the United Counties Council of Illinois (UCCI) will host an Illinois Counties Dinner on Friday, July 11, at 6 pm. Conference registrants will receive detailed information about the event at a later date.

Click on this link to register for the conference. 

Upcoming NACo Webinars

NACo has announced the following upcoming webinar opportunities. ISACo is a proud partner with NACo and encourages counties to participate in NACo membership and activities.   

Federal Reforms to Medicaid Financing: What Counties Should Know (Part 2)

(Monday, May 12, 2025, 2:00pm-3:00pm CST)

This two-part webinar series will examine the vital role Medicaid plays in supporting county-administered behavioral health and primary care services. It will also explore how proposed and ongoing federal financing reforms could impact counties—fiscally, operationally and in their ability to serve residents.
The series will highlight key areas for county engagement and advocacy, offering insights on how local leaders can help shape Medicaid’s future.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

From Languishing to Flourishing: Strategies for County Professionals to Reclaim Joy and Wellbeing

(Wednesday, May 14, 2025, 1:00pm-2:00pm CST)

Are you feeling stuck, unmotivated, or simply going through the motions? You're not alone. Many people, including U.S. county professionals, are experiencing a state of languishing, a sense of stagnation that impacts wellbeing, productivity and engagement. Join the National Council for Mental Wellbeing and the National Association of Counties (NACo) for a webinar that will help you shift from languishing to flourishing. You’ll learn practical strategies to restore motivation, create moments of flow, and build resilience in your personal and professional life. Register today and take the first step toward renewed energy and purpose!

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

Ask a Public Health Expert: The Resurgence of Measles

(Thursday, May 15, 2025, 1:00pm-2:00pm CST)

Join NACo on Thursday, May 15 at 2 p.m. ET for a webinar on the resurgence of measles and what county leaders need to know. As outbreaks emerge across the U.S., this session will cover the history of measles, the importance of vaccination, current trends and how counties can respond effectively. The hour-long webinar will feature a 30-minute expert presentation followed by 20 minutes of audience Q&A. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from public health experts and get your questions answered. 

If you wish to submit questions in advance, you may do so by filling out this form.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

Inside Washington: County Impacts from the White House & Congress

(Thursday, May 15, 2025, 2:30pm-3:30pm CST)

NACo’s First 100 Days webinar series is starting a biweekly series to provide timely updates and analysis on key developments from the White House and Congress. Each session focuses on policies and actions that directly impact counties — from federal funding and regulatory changes to intergovernmental partnerships. Tune in every other week to stay informed on how these evolving federal dynamics may shape county priorities, responsibilities and operations.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

Inside Washington: County Impacts from the White House & Congress (Part 2)

(Monday, May 19, 2025, 12:00pm-1:00pm CST)

Hosted by the Local Government Legal Center (LGLC), join NACo for a second informational (not for CLE) webinar regarding the executive orders issued this year and federal policies in the area of immigration and how they may impact local governments and local government officials. Presenters will provide a high-level overview of the laws at issue and their impact on local government operations and duties.

The LGLC is a coalition of national local government organizations formed in 2023 by the National Association of Counties (NACo), National League of Cities (NLC) and International Municipal Lawyers Association (IMLA) to provide education to local governments regarding the Supreme Court and its impact on local governments and local officials and to advocate for local government positions at the Supreme Court in appropriate cases. Visit the Local Government Legal Center to learn more.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

Safeguarding Taxpayer Assets: Inside Suffolk County’s Bank Account Collateralization Program

(Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 12:00pm-1:00pm CST)

In today’s evolving regulatory and banking landscape, public entities must have clear visibility into their deposits, collateralization, and verification processes. Yet, many municipalities lack a comprehensive solution to streamline this complex responsibility.

Join NACo for an inside look at how Suffolk County has implemented a cutting-edge bank account collateralization program. This session will explore:

• How having a single point of reference for bank collateral enhances audit functions and strengthens financial oversight
• Common misconceptions about collateralization programs—why more counties aren’t adopting them and whether implementation is as complex as it seems
• The impact of a well-structured collateralization program on credit ratings and financial stability

Protecting taxpayer assets requires more than just compliance—it requires certainty. Discover how to bring transparency and security to your entity’s financial management.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

Chart Your Course: Real Stories of Counties Advancing with AI Online Learning

(Thursday, May 29, 2025, 12:00pm-1:00pm CST)

A continuation of our "Chart Your Course" digital learning program, this webinar will highlight how counties are leveraging the Microsoft online learning platform to upskill their workforce in artificial intelligence and related technologies. Hear directly from county representatives as they share real-world examples, practical strategies, and lessons learned from integrating digital learning into their staff development efforts. Whether you're just getting started or looking to strengthen existing programs, this session will offer valuable insights to support your journey.

Click on this link to register for the webinar. 

CORPORATE PARTNER SPOTLIGHT  

 

ClearGov® is the leading planning, budgeting, and reporting solutions provider for local governments. ClearGov helps local agencies modernize and streamline their financial processes to enhance transparency and efficiency. These solutions are utilized successfully by more than 1,200 agencies across all 50 states and are both powerful and affordable enough to support local agencies of every shape and size. ClearGov is proudly endorsed by the National Association of Counties (NACo) and is a Corporate Partner with the Illinois State Association of Counties.

For more information, visit www.cleargov.com.

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