(SPRINGFIELD) Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed legislation requiring state agencies to develop a strategic unified plan to build a network of services for survivors of human trafficking. According to the Illinois State Police, Senate Bill 2323 addresses the human trafficking issue through prevention, intervention, and establishing standards for survivor support. Meanwhile, for those who suspect human trafficking, they should contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline by calling 1-888-373-7888 or by texting *233733.
(CHICAGO) Illinois & Wisconsin health care operator Mercyhealth has agreed to pay more than $1 million in monetary relief and offered to reinstate employees who were terminated for refusing to comply with the organization’s COVID-19 vaccine policy. The settlement follows an investigation by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which found reasonable cause to believe that Mercyhealth discriminated against employees based on their religion by terminating their employees or subjecting them to a wage deduction.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Federal Drug Administration has announced two sweeteners are being recalled nationwide due to a labeling mix up. The company, NuNatural is recalling its Organic Pure Stevia and Pure Monk Fruit Sweetener because 78 bottles of each, a total of 156 bottles altogether, beat the other’s label, all with a best-by date of April 2028. Although the FDA advises that the probability of serious health problems is low despite upgrading the recall. Also, hand soap sold nationwide is being recalled by DermaRite Industries after it was found that its DermaKlee, KleenFoam, and PeriGene soap products contain a dangerous bacterium that could lead to serious infections. Learn more on the FDA website.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois State Fair is continuing in Springfield as today is Republican Day on the fairgrounds with more livestock shows, a free concert at the Grand Central Stage with Illinois native rock band Head East, and on the Grandstand stage tonight at 8:00 it’s Brad Paisley with Tucker Wetmore. Tomorrow is First Responder Day and Healthcare Heroes Day with free admission for all police officers, firefighters, EMT’s, and Healthcare Workers who show their badge at the gate. With more livestock shows, the Friday night Grandstand show has The Chainsmokers in concert at 8:00. The Saturday is Park District Conservation Day with members from more than 45 Park Districts throughout Illinois on the fairgrounds, plus there are more livestock shows, a pickleball tournament, USAC auto racing at 2:00, a demo derby & boat trailer races in The Arena, and on the Grandstand stage that night is Def Leppard with Phil X & The Drills at 8:00. Then Sunday, the fair’s final day, is Family Day on the fairgrounds with a cheer & dance showcase, draft horse pulling, a chili cookoff, ARCA auto racing at 1:00, and the Turnpike Troubadours on the Grandstand stage with Whitney Morgan and the 78’s at 8:00 Sunday night. Not to mention the many outdoor activities at Conservation World, with other live entertainment, carnival rides, games, and all the great fair food concessions. Learn more on the statefair.illinois.gov website.