Illinois News & Current Events | Public News Service

The State of Illinois Department on Aging predicts by 2030, adults age 60 and older will be 25% of the state's population. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Volunteers vital for meal delivery to older IL residents

As the new year approaches, people often make resolutions to donate money to a charity. Donating one's time as a volunteer is an option that …

According to the Illinois Department of Corrections, nearly 55% of male inmates are Black, 32% are white, and less than 1% are Asian, Hispanic or Indigenous. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, December 23, 2024

IL justice-involved study shows demographic imbalance

Data show troubling disparities on the number of justice-involved individuals within the Illinois Department of Corrections. Pew Research figures …

The Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter 2024 report shows 12% of adults over age 65 have the disease. (Adobe Stock)

IL Alzheimer's patients can enjoy holiday fun

The excitement of the holiday season is celebrated with family get-togethers. But for Alzheimer's patients, large groups can produce fear and …

According to Lawsuit Information Center, as of November 2024, at least 660 lawsuits have been filed by former inmates alleging they were sexually abused by staff while housed at the former Arthur J. Audy detention center. (Adobe Stock)

New IL legislation removes barriers for children of sexual abuse

Childhood sexual abuse survivors will benefit from amendments to legislation pending in the Illinois Senate. House Bill 222 would revise three …

CollegeRecruiter.com indicates small businesses or certain high-level companies may not publicly post certain positions for confidentiality reasons or wanting to control the applicant pool. (Adobe Stock)

IL workers to see pay, benefit information in job postings

Some companies will have new rules to follow amid changes to the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003. House Bill 3129 ensures employers with four or more …

According to a Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism 2024 study, Edwards, Clay, White, and Jasper counties in Illinois have no news outlets. (Adobe Stock)

IL news options for rural populations remain limited

The days of thumbing through a community newspaper are retreating into history. A Northwestern University Medill School of Journalism 2024 report …

Yale Medicine suggested limiting caffeine intake and avoiding nicotine and alcohol near bedtime as treatments of long COVID symptoms. (Adobe Stock)

Studies show diabetes medicine may help with COVID aftereffects

COVID-19 cases do not make news headlines much anymore but many people who experienced it can have persistent symptoms long after the infection…

The Northern Illinois Food Bank reports that in 13 counties, 100,000 children are food insecure. (Adobe Stock)

IL food banks to receive USDA funding to address low food inventory

People will gather over the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends to count their blessings. While the holiday feast is plentiful for many…

The Illinois International Port District's top imports are sand and gravel, petroleum and metal products. (Adobe Stock)

EPA grants to fund IL port energy projects

Illinois, like many states, continues to seek innovative solutions for cleaner air. The Biden administration recently selected the Illinois …

Research site Statista lists 23,000 specialty physicians in Illinois including 2071 radiologists, 1489 cardiologists and 987 oncologists. (Adobe Stock)

IL doctors seek revisions to their Medicare reimbursement amounts

The number of Medicare enrollees is projected to rise over the next few years as the baby boomer population ages. More than 2 million Illinoisans are …

According to Environment Illinois, residential rooftop solar grew nearly 2,300% between 2017 and 2022. (Adobe Stock)

IL solar energy demand remains strong, boosts job growth

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pu…

According to the 2023 Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice, the average length of detention stay for a juvenile offender is nearly six months. (Adobe Stock)

Legislation on IL juvenile offenders awaits Senate decision

Pending legislation could change the age of Illinois' juvenile offenders' detention time before their trial date. Currently, juveniles as young as 10…

Illinois companies will expand a portion of track through the Springfield area to provide a higher speed intercity passenger rail connection for Amtrak's service between Chicago and St. Louis. (Adobe Stock)

Springfield gets federal grant to complete local, regional rail improvements

Construction is scheduled to begin early next year on improvements to railroad infrastructure in and around Illinois' capital city. Springfield has …

The Esperanza Health Centers' Brighton Park expansion allows the federally qualified health center to serve an additional 23,000 patients on Chicago's South Side. (Creative Commons)

Federal tax credits help clinics expand in low-income IL communities

A federal program is awarding billions of dollars in tax credits to spur investment and economic growth in low-income urban and rural communities…

According to the Meals on Wheels website, more than 1 million meals were delivered in Northern Illinois during the pandemic, and volunteers contributed 52,000 hours of their time. (Adobe Stock)

Older IL population has options for healthy meals

The number of older Americans who live alone, because of self-isolation or losing a spouse, is increasing. These factors can prevent them from …

The Illinois Department of Health lists witnessing violence in the home or community or having a family member attempt or die by suicide as examples of adverse childhood experiences. (Adobe Stock)

Childhood trauma could harm some IL adults for life, study says

New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed 75% of U.S. high school students said they have had at least one adverse …

According to Forbes.com, imposter scams are the most common method of fraud in the U.S., with 178,040 incidents reported during the first quarter of 2023. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents should know scam warning signs

Financial publication Forbes ranked Illinois ninth on its list of the "10 Most Scammed States" last year, with 285 incidents for every 100,000 …

Education site edweek.org says the longest teacher strike in history happened in Homer, Illinois. The strike began on Oct. 17, 1986, and ended on June 23, 1987, after an agreement was reached. (Adobe Stock)

IL teachers union puts potential strike on hold, for now

A meeting last week between the Board of Education and its teachers' union in one Illinois town has left one group unhappy. Members have voiced …

According to the American Sheep Industry Association, as of January 2024, there are 5 million sheep in the U.S. Illinois ranks 27th in the nation for sheep production. (Adobe Stock)

IL sheep farmer embraces land for solar use

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Energy News Network-Public News…

According to KFF data, in 2024, Illinois had almost 2.4 million total Medicare beneficiaries. (Adobe Stock)

Medicare plan for IL residents has changes

Open enrollment for Medicare ends on Dec 7. The federal health insurance program is for anyone aged 65 or older. Some people younger than 65 with …

The League of Women Voters of Illinois said voter suppression tactics include impersonating an election official and spreading false information related to voting machine tabulation. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents urged to know their rights ahead of voting

This year's Election Day will be one of the most closely watched in history, and one concern of Illinois election officials is safety at polling …

According to the U.S. Energy Administration, Illinois is the nation's sixth-largest energy-consuming and eleventh-largest energy producing state. (Adobe Stock)

Passive House standards: a solution for highly efficient affordable housing

By Audrey Henderson for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the average Illinois farm is 375 acres in size and grows mostly grain, corn and soybeans. In terms of livestock, 22% have beef cattle, 3% raise swine and 1% have dairy cows. (Adobe Stock)

IL farmers face another hold for federal funding

By Grace Hussain for Sentient.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration…

According to the Prison Policy Institute, Illinois's incarceration rate of 433 per 100,000 people ranks the state as having nearly the highest lockup rate of any democratic country. (Adobe Stock)

Higher cancer rates among IL's incarcerated population

Two specific types of cancer are showing up in high numbers among people in jail and prison and Illinois is no exception. A new study found a lack …

U.S. News and World Report said Illinois ranks 39th in the country for juvenile incarceration. (Adobe Stock)

IL juvenile rights group takes action for education behind bars

A class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of young people with disabilities serving time in the Illinois Department of Corrections. The …

America's Health Rankings rated Illinois in 38th place in the country for the highest number of residents aged 60 and above who have faced food insecurity. (Adobe Stock)

IL seniors face mental, physical roadblocks to nutritious meals

The baby boomer generation is getting older and the ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular access to nutritious meals, can …

According to a 2019 Illinois Department of Health report, almost 12% of new mothers were diagnosed with postpartum depression. Of those, nearly 60% took prescribed medication for depression treatment and almost 32% received counseling. (Adobe Stock)

IL moms have added options to address postpartum disorder

A new baby should bring a time of happiness for a family but what is frequently dismissed as the "baby blues" is a mental health condition called post…

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says up to 500 species of native bees live in the state and contribute to the existence of plant species and agricultural crop production. (Adobe Stock)

IL bee population stunted by pesticides

One of nature's hardest workers is facing extinction from repeated exposure to a dangerous pesticide. Scientists conducting CT scans reveal …

The Illinois State Election Board reported nearly 5 million residents, a little more than 98% of registered voters cast their vote in the 2020 presidential election. (Adobe Stock)

IL voters welcome voting options

Illinois voters have several ways to cast their ballot in the upcoming election, whether by mail, in person or early voting. The Illinois Policy …

IL small businesses hope tax deduction stays afloat

A large tax hike could appear soon, that would affect Illinois' small businesses still rebounding from the pandemic. One group hopes Congress will …

More than 15,000 home health and personal care aides will soon be needed, according to the Illinois Dept. of Employment Security

Seeking younger generation for IL health care jobs

The healthcare employee pool is shrinking - and as the medical profession faces increases in demand for mental health treatment, chronic illness …

According to Energy.gov, over 50% of the electric power generation workforce in Illinois was in wind, solar, and hydroelectric. (Adobe Stock)

IL energy jobs growth is strong, lacks female workers

Rising demands for clean energy efficiency are producing a wealth of work opportunities in Illinois. These in-demand jobs are also promoting a …

According to the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice 2023 Annual report, the average age of youth in the state's criminal justice system is 17. (Adobe Stock)

IL juvenile justice court alternative proves successful

Anyone age 18 or younger accused of violating Illinois law, who has formal charges filed against them, has historically had their case tried in a …

According to the site Tech-stack, AI algorithms can forecast energy needs, helps improve the reliability of solar energy supply and balance the grid load. (Adobe Stock)

IL residents can benefit from merging of solar and AI

By Kari Lydersen for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-Pu…

In 2022, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranked Chicago eighth on an annual ENERGY STAR Top Cities list. On average, ENERGY STAR buildings use 35% less energy and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 35% compared to typical buildings. (Adobe Stock)

Innovative construction projects address short-term, long-term IL energy needs

By Audrey Henderson for Energy News Network.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network…

The USDA says in Illinois in 2021, there were 9.50 billion cubic feet of live trees in forests. (Adobe Stock)

IL environmental group monitors forests amid Biden legislation

The Biden Administration issued an executive order in 2022 to strengthen and protect America's forests and old-growth trees. Old-growth trees have …

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the greatest number of Illinois female voters are between the ages of 55 and 64. (Adobe Stock)

IL women voters continue to outpace male counterparts

A Democratic woman of color is vying against an embattled former Republican president in this year's historic Nov. 5 election and political analysts …

Pew Research data show in 2021, 62.5 million Latinos resided in the United States in 2021, accounting for 19% of the total U.S. population. (Adobe Stock)

IL Latino communities advocate for a cleaner environment

A survey of 760 registered Latino voters found 87% of Latinos support projects to produce a cleaner, natural world. The poll, conducted in 10 states…

According to newsbug.info for Illinois, the median monthly rent is $1,627 and almost 33% of Illinoisans are renters. (Adobe Stock)

New IL law widens tenant-landlord divide

A controversial Illinois law signed earlier this month has pushed landlords and tenants even further apart. Gov. JB Pritzker signed the Landlord …

Illinois is the nation's fifth-largest electricity producer, and typically sends about one-fifth of the power it generates to other states over interstate transmission lines. Illinois generates more electricity from nuclear energy than any other state.(Adobe Stock)

New study says IL needs new less expensive energy options

A new study warns that Illinois will face future energy shortages and a higher risk of blackouts, unless investments are made soon in cleaner energy…

IL poverty rates remain high despite landmark legislation

The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 marked its 60th anniversary this week. The landmark legislation started the war on poverty in the United States …

According to Reuters, pro-Palestinian college protest demands include a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, an end to U.S. military assistance for Israel, and divestment from businesses that profit from the war. (Adobe Stock)

Pro-Palestinian groups voice concerns about DNC protest plans

This week, protesters could outnumber delegates at the Democratic National Convention starting today in Chicago. The demonstrators will include tens …

The industry group Illinois Pork Producers reported hog production and processing supports nearly 58,000 jobs in the state. (Adobe Stock)

Unsafe IL feed facilities harm workers, compromise public health

A new study shows more than 1 million tons of animal waste is produced every year in the U.S. Consumers' desire for more animal protein and better …

According to the Chicago Metropolitan Planning Agency, Chicago and Cook County produce the most total emissions. (Adobe Stock)

IL environmentalists hope federal grant lowers emissions

The fight against the effects of climate change in Illinois has more help. Under the Biden Administration's pollution reduction plan, the U.S…

According to the Illinois State Water Survey, extreme rainfall and floods can adversely affect drinking water and wastewater systems, and cause foodborne diseases from sewage and population displacement. (Adobe Stock)

Excessive IL rains stir conversation on preparedness

Illinois generally sees its hottest and wettest months during the summer, and climate change is making them more intense. The University of …

The Illinois Department of Public Health requires parents to supply proof of an exam from an eye disease specialist or licensed optometrist, administered within the previous 12 months before the school year begins. (Adobe Stock)

Early eye exams ensure healthy sight for IL children

Notebooks, writing tools and laptops are standard supplies on a parent's back-to-school shopping list. But one important appointment that can easily …

According to the Illinois Department of Agriculture, the average size of a farm, including hobby farms, is 375 acres with grain, corn and soybeans as the main crops. (Adobe Stock)

IL farmers markets benefit communities, economy

This is National Farmers Market Week, as fresh jams, jellies, fruits and vegetables draw thousands of people to more than 8,000 farmers markets …

According to a report by Open Doors, international students who attend Illinois universities come primarily from China, India, Nigeria, South Korea and Taiwan. (Adobe Stock)

U.S. politics affect school choices of some international students

As people head back to college soon, professors may notice an increase in the number of international students. A new report found enrollment numbers …

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Public News Service (podcast)"
	"Hey Google, play the Public News Service podcast"
	"Alexa, play Public News Service podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the 2024 Talks podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the 2024 Talks podcast"
	"Alexa, play 2000 24 Talks podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

Audio Activation
	"Siri, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Hey Google, play the Yonder Report podcast"
	"Alexa, play the Yonder Report podcast" or "Alexa, what's my news flash?" once you set it up in the Alexa app
	Embed this Newscast

PNS Daily Newscast: Afternoon Update - December 24, 2024

2024Talks - December 24, 2024

The Yonder Report - December 19, 2024

Illinois