Black History is American History

To celebrate Black History month, Ernest Crim III, a teacher from Joliet, has collaborated with CBS in Chicago to create “29 Black History Facts You Probably Didn’t Learn in School.” The playlist is updated daily, so you can check in all month long.

Bureau County, Here Are Your Candidates!

The Democratic primary ballot is set. Meet your 2024 candidates here.

Remember the Judges

Find the Democratic judges who will be on your ballot this March right here.

CALL TO ACTION!

TOMORROW the Bureau County Board’s Law Committee will meet in the boardroom to create a resolution that would restrict any immigrant presence and in essence, make Bureau County a NON-SANCTIONARY COUNTY. Asylum seekers are in this country legally and they need your voice and support. Get the details here.

Early Voting Begins February 8!

Make sure you, your friends and your family are prepared to cast your vote in the 2024 General Primary. We’ve got all your voter information here.

Legislative Update for the New Year

The new year is here, and with it comes a whole slew of new laws that will go into effect. Here a a few you may be interested in:

• Minimum wage for non-tipped workers increases to $14; for tipped employees, it increases to $8.40.

• Any laborer, worker or mechanic employed by a contractor or subcontractor and is paid in a sum less than the prevailing wage rate for work performed on a project has a right to legal action for whatever difference in salary there may be.

• A person, surviving spouse or next of kin for any person who is injured or killed by a person under the age of 18 who is impaired by drugs or alcohol is eligible to pursue legal damages from a person who willfully supplied, or willfully allowed consumption of, drugs or alcohol to the minor in question.

• Animal control facilities may not charge an adoption fee for dogs or cats if the person presents a valid ID or Illinois Person with a disability card with the word “veteran” printed on its face.

• Any person who requires a course not offered by their local community college may take that course at another community college and pay in-district fees and tuition.

• Hospitals will be legally required to screen patients for eligibility for public financial assistance before sending them to collections. Hospitals will also be required to refer patients to free, unbiased resources if immigration-related concerns arise.

Looking for the full list of new laws? The Illinois Municipal League has published an informative guide for you.

Better representation for
a better life in the Illinois Valley.