(SPRINGFIELD) As we reported earlier this week, electricity bills for statewide residents are expected to shoot up this summer as some lawmakers are saying the state is headed for an energy cost crisis. While the downstate Illinois power grid, Midcontinent Independent System Operator, say more than a 20-fold year-to-year price jump at its capacity auction in April, the Illinois Attorney General’s office has filed a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, labeling the action that set the prices as “flawed” saying that the resulting reserve power prices will “drastically” increase consumer bills. Ameren Illinois customers can expect about a 20% jump in their monthly bill, which is about $45 per month.
(SPRINGFIELD) While Illinois’ legislative session ended this past weekend without passage of a Native American K-12 School Mascot Ban, a separate issue sought by Natives was approved. The measure known as the “Mascot Bill” would have directly impacted around 100 school districts across Illinois, dealing with Natives and other types of mascots, and could be revived later this year in the fall veto session. Meanwhile, approved in both the State House and Senate, House Bill 1605 would amend existing law so tribal nations can join land conservation agreements with landowners and now goes to the Governor’s desk.
(PEORIA) A Peoria attorney faces up to five years in prison after being accused of voting more than once. 67 year old Thorn Smith is accused of voting more than once in the April 1st general election. According to prosecutors, when Smith arrived at his polling place, an election judge said he had already received a mail-in ballot. Smith is accused of signing a form saying he had not previously voted and proceeded to submit a second ballot.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois State Police (ISP) have deployed a new command vehicle designed to improve emergency response situations. The new vehicle, a 2025 Freightliner, replaces an 18 year old vehicle with outdated technology. Provided to Illinois by the U.S. Department of Energy, the new command center vehicle is equipped with high-definition cameras, state-of-the-art communications technology, and more updated equipment.