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The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) today announced $697,816 in grants to support 14 grants stewardship programs managed by land trusts on land protected by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission (INPC). The grants are part of the Illinois Natural Areas Stewardship Grant Program, which aims to increase the delivery of much-needed land and water stewardship activities to natural areas permanently protected within the provides funding to eligible land trusts for activities that protect and restore natural areas within the INPC system. Given the growing stewardship needs of natural areas throughout Illinois, this grant program funds projects that help land trusts expand staff and purchase equipment for these activities. The following grants were awarded:

The Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) released today 2027 Plan Year rates for the Get Covered Illinois Marketplace. There are five health insurance issuers for Illinoisans to choose health plans from, and the statewide weighted average rate increase for individual plans is 14.1, down from 28.8 percent last year. The ACA Illinois rates posted online do not represent the actual premiums paid by the consumer. Health insurer rates are used to calculate the premium price after the benefit options selected by the consumer are applied.

Governor JB Pritzker announced attendance totals for the 2026 State Fairs exceeded 1 million for the second consecutive year. With an average cost of $145 for a family of four, the fairs are also ranked among the most affordable state fairs in the Midwest. This estimate includes parking, tickets, two ride passes, and food. Further, Du Quoin set a new attendance record and Springfield Grandstand ticket sales topped 72,000 reaching an all-time high – topping the record set in 2024. “Our State Fairs bring people together to celebrate all the things that make our state special. Affordable family fun remains a priority, and we delivered on that again this year in both Springfield and Du Quoin,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Beyond the entertainment value, both State Fairs positively impact Illinois’ economy and create opportunities to spotlight agriculture, our state’s number one industry.”

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced that Viakable will invest $55 million to expand their manufacturing facilities in La Salle, where the company has been located since 2018. The company’s investment will create 50 new full-time jobs and retain 65 existing full-time positions, reinforcing Viakable’s commitment to growing in Illinois. This expansion project is a result of Governor Pritzker’s trade mission to Mexico in the spring of 2025, which focused on deepening economic ties and attracting new business investments to Illinois. This expansion demonstrates how the Governor’s efforts to strengthen international business ties are bringing new investment and jobs to Illinois communities.

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) and the Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office (CROO) recently released the State of Illinois’ 2026 Annual Cannabis Report, providing a comprehensive look at the work of state agencies responsible for cannabis licensing, regulation, public health, public safety, economic development and reinvestment during Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26).

The National Association of Counties (NACo) and ISACo are inviting counties across the nation to participate in Operation Green Light for Veterans, November 4–11, 2026. Counties can show their support for veterans and their families by illuminating county buildings in green and encouraging residents and local businesses to do the same. NACo has developed a comprehensive toolkit with resolution templates, sample press releases, social media materials and other resources to help counties participate and raise awareness of the services and benefits available to veterans. Click on the title to learn more.

The Illinois Supreme Court will review a case that could significantly clarify the scope of county authority over commercial solar siting. The appeal in Tate Road Solar 1, LLC v. County of Winnebago follows conflicting appellate court decisions over whether counties retain discretion to deny or impose additional requirements on solar projects that meet statewide siting standards. The Court’s eventual ruling could have major implications for county zoning authority, renewable energy development and potentially the siting of battery energy storage facilities across Illinois. Click on the title to read the article.

A new study estimates that planned Illinois data centers could generate $57 billion in investment, 120,000 jobs and $300 million in additional annual property tax revenue over the next decade. But rapid growth is also raising concerns over electricity demand, water use and proposals that could limit local governments' ability to offer data center incentives. Click on the title to read the article.

he Illinois Department of Insurance (IDOI) announces the return of $9.3 million to consumers this year through its Life Policy Locator service for lost or unclaimed life insurance policies and annuities. “When families lose a loved one, they may not be aware of the life insurance benefits and annuities their deceased family member purchased for financial security,” said IDOI Director Ann Gillespie. “We want to help Illinoisans collect the funds they’re entitled to receive, and our Life Policy Locator is available at no charge.” Under Illinois law, insurance companies must attempt to find the beneficiaries of deceased policyholders when life insurance or annuity proceeds remain unpaid. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) reports that millions of dollars in life insurance benefits remain unclaimed each year.

NACo’s Large Urban County Caucus (LUCC) met on September 30 to discuss federal funding, proposed OMB and Census changes, property tax pressures and other emerging issues affecting counties. County officials also identified data center development, alternative revenue sources, federal grant conditions and unfunded mandates as priorities for future discussion. Click on the title to read the article.

Illinois is preparing for significant changes to its public defense system as major provisions of the State Public Defender Act take effect January 1, 2027. The new framework will increase state involvement in public defender appointments, funding, reporting and performance standards while retaining county-based public defender offices. ISACo examines the implementation timeline and key issues counties should be watching as the new system takes shape. Click on the title to read the article.

The Center for Digital Government announced the results of its 2026 Digital States Survey, a biennial evaluation of the technology practices of state government in all fifty states, on Thursday and raised Illinois’ overall grade to an A-, in addition to recognizing Illinois with an Outstanding Achievement Award for Constituent Digital Experience. “Illinois is showing what’s possible when we invest in modernization and put residents at the center of every digital service we build,” said Brandon Ragle, Secretary and State CIO for the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology. “This recognition reflects the measurable progress we’re making across government, and we remain committed to delivering secure, intuitive tools that meet the needs of our residents today and in the years ahead.”

As measles cases across the country increase, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is reminding residents to protect themselves by confirming they are vaccinated against the disease. While the risk for getting measles remains very low for residents, vaccination is the most effective step people can take to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Today, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced $4.6 million in grant funding to 49 grantees to attract visitors and support tourism across the Illinois. The awards include $2 million to support projects along Route 66, $2 million to market destinations and attractions across the state, and $654,000 to promote Illinois internationally. “Millions of people visit Illinois every year, and we want them to experience more of what our state has to offer from Route 66 to the Chicago skyline,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “These grants will help local partners reach travelers across the country and around the world and show them what they can discover here in the Middle of Everything. More visitors mean more customers for our restaurants, hotels, and shops, supporting local jobs and businesses in communities throughout Illinois.”

Illinois is taking another step toward regulating artificial intelligence with the creation of a new state AI Cabinet. The advisory group will examine AI safety, critical infrastructure, data centers and government procurement while developing recommendations that could have implications for county governments. Click on the title to read the story.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs today hosted a celebration to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the great achievements of Latino community leaders. Treasurer Frerichs honored nine individuals: the Spanish-language play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Cubs, Bulls and Blackhawks; a brother and sister who own several Chicago-area restaurants; a Chicago high school principal; an airport concessions firm founder; a registered nurse and clinical coordinator; the organizing director of Chicago’s hospitality workers union; the chief curator at the National Museum of Mexican Art; and an Illinois state senator.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) are encouraging eligible families to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support income eligible households with utility costs for natural gas, propane, and electricity. Applications will open October 1, 2026, and will remain open through August 13, 2027, or until funds are exhausted. “No working family should have to decide between heating their home and putting food on the table,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Making life more affordable for Illinoisans means offering support to those struggling with raised monthly costs, including utility bills. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides eligible households with the critical assistance needed to stay warm through the winter months.”

The Great Lakes Regional Forum convened to examine the rapid expansion of data centers and the implications for local governments, including water use, infrastructure demands, land use and community benefits. The Forum also received updates on federal water policy, including the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) and reauthorization of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). Click on the title to read the article.

Significant federal changes are reshaping the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Illinois. Expanded work requirements are already in effect, while increased state administrative costs and future benefit-sharing requirements could create substantial new fiscal pressures. ISACo examines the current status of SNAP, Illinois’ response and what these changes could mean for counties and the communities they serve. Click on the link to read the article.

On September 16, the U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee advanced its version of the 2026 Farm Bill, including provisions affecting rural infrastructure, water and wastewater systems, health care, childcare, broadband, conservation and access to USDA assistance. ISACo highlights key provisions of interest to Illinois counties as the legislation moves forward in Congress. Click on the title to read the article.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that the unemployment rate was 4.7 percent in August, down -0.2 percentage point from July, and up +0.4 percentage point from the same month, one year ago, based on data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The revised July unemployment rate was 4.9 percent. Total nonfarm payrolls decreased over-the-month in August, down -4,400 (-0.1%) to 6,175,600. The July monthly change in payrolls was revised from the preliminary report, from +11,700 to +15,300. The August payroll jobs estimate and unemployment rate reflect activity for the week including the 12th.

The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the Save Abandoned Babies Foundation today announced the launch of a new campaign designed to immediately connect the public to lifesaving information about the Illinois Newborn Infant Protection Act, commonly referred to as the Baby Safe Haven Law. This critical law provides parents in crisis with a safe, anonymous and legal alternative to infant abandonment. Under the law, a parent may hand an unharmed newborn, up to 30 days old, to staff at a designated safe haven and walk away – no questions asked and without fear of prosecution.

Access to phone and broadband service is vital for keeping residents plugged into emergency services and local resources. September 13-19, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), along with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), and National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates (NASUCA) are promoting Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week. Lifeline offers monthly discounts to help eligible residents access voice or broadband services.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (ID-FPR) issued medical cannabis dispensary licenses to 37 existing dispensaries which, beginning to-day, may serve both adult use customers and medical patients at the same location. Providing existing dis-pensaries with the ability to opt-in for a medical dispensary license greatly increases patient access across the state, while also eliminating unnecessary red tape for regulators and consumers alike. This change also allows newer dispensaries issued under social equity lotteries the chance to serve medical patients, level-ing the playing field for small businesses.

The U.S. Supreme Court has blocked new federal mail ballot requirements from taking effect ahead of the November 3 general election, allowing Illinois county election officials to continue preparations under existing procedures. Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon, Governor JB Pritzker and Attorney General Kwame Raoul welcomed the decision, which avoids significant changes to ballot mail procedures just weeks before Election Day. Click on the title to read the article.