Newsroom

Click here to let me know how you feel on a number of important issues.

This week, it was announced that the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) has extended the deadline for Illinois renters to apply for aid by one week to 12 p.m. on August 28 due to those impacted by last week’s the storms. Additionally, landlords will be given to August 30 to complete their portion of the applications...

“The people of Illinois have lost one of their greatest public servants. I would not be a state senator today if not for Jim Thompson. He gave both of my parents their starts in public service and always gave me great advice...

"I'm glad that the Governor has finally heard the bipartisan call of lawmakers who have been pleading with him for a more common-sense, regional approach, based on smaller districts. We can all debate the validity of the new boundaries...

On Friday, Governor Pritzker announced that he was issuing an executive order to cancel both of the Illinois State Fairs which are held annually in Springfield and Du Quoin...

Recently, every member of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus sent a letter to Governor JB Pritzker formally requesting that he adopt the more widely-accepted 14-day timeline rather than his current 28-day requirement for moving between phases...

I voted ‘no’ on the budget proposal that was presented. Right now unemployment is over 16% in Illinois, and yet we ended up with a budget that is unbalanced by more than $6 billion. While our small businesses are being destroyed and many of our workers and families are struggling to pay their bills, it is unacceptable that this budget allows for a pay raise for lawmakers...

With the Illinois Senate scheduled to convene May 20-22, State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) says that the body needs to use part of that time to hold public hearings over the state’s reopening plan...

In response to news that the Pritzker administration is releasing a number of felons from Illinois prisons, including convicted murderers, State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield), a former prosecutor, and several of his colleagues sent a letter to the Governor today asking for answers...

Earlier this week, the Illinois State Police issued new emergency rules to help firearm owners with expired Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) cards...

Overview of state assistance programs for struggling small businesses.

am hearing a great deal about the devastating impact that the COVID-19 emergency is having on local businesses. Please see ...

In another effort to provide timely and accurate information to the public, Coronavirus.illinois.gov has been launched to centralize the breaking updates from state government, prevention and preparation tips, frequently asked questions and resources from public health experts...

In light of ongoing health concerns surrounding the coronavirus/COVID-19 health crisis, a number of Illinois’ utility companies have announced measures being taken to help alleviate unnecessary stress and burdens for Illinois residents...

For individuals, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will postpone the April 15 federal tax-payment deadline for another 90 days. The IRS will also waive interest and penalties....

On March 13, Governor Pritzker ordered that all K-12 schools (both public and private) close from March 17 through at least March 30. The order also includes early childhood programs located in public and private schools. Internships, experiential learning opportunities, and behind-the-wheel driver’s education are included as well...

According to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the federal emergency declaration has added flexibility to the Medicaid system that will help cover costs involved with testing for and treating patients for COVID-19...

The United States Census Bureau is currently monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will follow guidance set out by federal, state, and local health authorities to prevent the spread of the disease. The bureau is pushing for more electronic and mail responses without the need for enumerators to follow up in person...

All restaurants and bars are closed through March 30, but you can still support these small businesses by utilizing drive-thru, delivery and curbside pickup where offered. Also, consider buying gift cards online to use later. This small step can help these local businesses get through this difficult time...

Update on changes to unemployment eligibility to assist with those affected by Covid-19/Coronavirus.

In light of the current coronavirus outbreak and orders from the Secretary of State, State Senator Steve McClure (R-Springfield) is postponing his spring Youth Advisory Council meeting...

On March 9, Illinois’ Governor issued a disaster proclamation in response to growing concerns surrounding the rapidly changing COVID-19 health issue...

With the census invitations beginning to hit mailboxes, you may be wondering what this snapshot of our nation is used for and how it can help our communities. In addition to determining your representation in Congress, census data is also used to direct federal resources to communities throughout America...

If you're a member of the military stationed in Illinois, you could soon get a head-start on your civilian career thanks to legislation that recently advanced out of committee in the Illinois Senate...

Senate Republicans are urging eligible taxpayers to utilize the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and AARP Tax-Aide programs when filing their 2019 income taxes...