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Sunday, February 16, 2025

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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Illinois

The 'piece rate' system can determine a slaughterhouse worker's pay based on their production output, or how many pieces of meat they are able to process during their shift. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

New study quantifies extreme dangers of slaughterhouse work

By Nina B. Elkadi for Sentient.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service …

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Illinoisans are more likely to be forced out of network for mental health care than for primary health care, which contributes to significant mental health disparities such as unequal access to care. (Adobe Stock)
IL shortages a barrier to meeting mental health crisis

As a national mental health crisis continues, advocates are calling for improved response systems but Illinois continues to face a shortage of staff …

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About 25% percent of children in Illinois are foreign-born or live with at least one parent that is, according to data from the Annie E. Casey Foundation. (Adobe Stock)
IL schools urged to push back against new immigration policies

As Illinois parents and children continue to be on high alert amid fears of school immigration raids, school officials are publicly advocating for …

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A recent study found nearly 70% of children under age six in Chicago may be exposed to lead contaminated tap water. (Adobe Stock)
IL works toward lead-free water pipes

Illinois has been working to replace all its lead water pipes but the task is enormous, as it is estimated the state has the most lead service lines …

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High school students with depression are more than twice as likely to drop out than their peers. (Adobe Stock)
School services could help IL further address youth mental health

About half of youths experiencing depression in Illinois are not receiving treatment. While the state ranks fairly well nationwide when it comes to …

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Small streams account for a very small percentage of total surface area, yet a study found they contribute 20% to 30% of total nitrous oxide emissions, making them
IL research shows high greenhouse gas levels in farm streams

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service C…

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National Farmers Union President Rob Larew said farmers' investments in necessary equipment are substantial. Base model John Deere tractors range from $10,000 to $30,000. (Adobe Stock)
IL farmers: John Deere right to repair suit 'common sense'

Some Illinois farmers say a lawsuit against equipment manufacturing titan John Deere is long overdue, and they hope the outcome is not more laws but …

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In Peoria, Ill., 42% of the population has a credential beyond high school, although almost 65% of the jobs available in the area require a post-high school credential. (Adobe Stock)
Peoria prioritizes education to fill workforce, poverty gaps

By Laura Aka for WorkingNation.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Illinois News Connection reporting for the WorkingNation-Public News Servic…

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The population of Kane County, Illinois, is about 500,000. Reducing rotting food in landfills will help the county achieve its goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25% below 2019 levels by 2030. (Adobe Stock)
Kane County uses $500,000 grant to reduce food waste

Kane County officials plan to launch four composting programs at large-scale facilities to reduce food waste, as part of meeting the county's climate …

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The state's Climate and Equitable Jobs Act aims to have 1 million electric vehicles on the road by 2030, and 100% transition from fossil fuels by 2050. (Adobe Stock)
How IL's grid plans will focus on underserved communities

Illinois plans to spend $1.5 billion through 2027 in significant grid investments to help meet the state's ambitious clean-energy goals, with nearly …

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Tom Homan, President-elect Donald Trump's border czar, said he will begin mass deportations in Chicago when Trump takes office. (Adobe Stock)
Chicago’s sanctuary protections may end this week

A proposed amendment to strip Chicago of its sanctuary protections is scheduled to be voted on this week. The change to the Welcome City Ordinance …

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The Solar Energy Industries Association reported Illinois ranks 15th in national solar capacity. (Adobe Stock)
Solar energy progress in IL could be on hold with new administration

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

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