Sims, Villanueva highlight $11.4 million in back-to-school tax savings for Illinois families

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Published: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 02:52 PM

School suppliesCHICAGO – Illinois families saved an estimated $11.4 million during the 2026 back-to-school sales tax holiday, exceeding initial projections and helping parents afford clothing, footwear and school supplies for the new academic year.

“As the nation faces a worsening affordability crisis, Americans are paying more for less, said Majority Appropriations Leader Elgie R. Sims Jr. (D-Chicago). “That’s why Illinois Democrats stepped up with a back-to-school tax holiday that saved families more than $11 million this school year. Every bit of relief helps make life easier for the people we represent, and we’ll keep fighting for them and their pocketbooks.”

Read more: Sims, Villanueva highlight $11.4 million in back-to-school tax savings for Illinois families

Belt: Groundbreaking of new Illinois State Police headquarters represents more than a new building

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Published: Monday, October 26, 2026 09:42 AM

A rendering of the Illinois State Police's new Metro East Regional Headquarters buildingEAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt celebrated the groundbreaking of the new, state-of-the art Illinois State Police Metro East Regional Headquarters. The new headquarters will be located at 2501 Lynch Ave. in East St. Louis and will stand as a regional hub for public safety, law enforcement coordination and specialized technical support.

“The groundbreaking of this new Illinois State Police headquarters represents more than a new building,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It represents a significant investment in the future of East St. Louis and the safety of our entire Metro East community.”

Read more: Belt: Groundbreaking of new Illinois State Police headquarters represents more than a new building

Ventura, Harmon tout expanded manufacturing investment in Will County

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Published: Thursday, October 22, 2026 11:46 AM

State Senator Rachel Ventura stands with elected officials and Hyundai Translead leaders at a press conferenceJOLIET - State Senator Rachel Ventura and Senate President Don Harmon were part of an announcement that Hyundai Translead is expanding its planned investment in Will County – creating a total of 3,750 new full-time jobs and investing $600 million. The State is also investing in a new Manufacturing Training Academy (MTA) at Joliet Junior College (JJC).

“Joliet is the heartbeat of industry in Will County and the state of Illinois, and this new Hyundai Translead facility will bring jobs and bolster economic growth in the 43rd District and surrounding communities,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This investment proves we are a premier manufacturing destination and demonstrates a commitment to fostering relationships that promote economic development in our communities.”

Read more: Ventura, Harmon tout expanded manufacturing investment in Will County

Castro announces $2.4 million available for tourism grant programs

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Published: Thursday, October 22, 2026 09:26 AM

State Senator Cristina Castro speaks on the Senate floorELGIN – State Senator Cristina Castro is encouraging eligible organizations and businesses to apply for $2.4 million in state tourism grant funding announced by Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

“The state’s $2.4 million investments in these tourism grant programs will build upon the success of our tourism industry while creating economic opportunities for Illinoisans,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The Tourism Attraction and Tourism Private Sector grant programs are incredible opportunities for eligible entities to gain state support for their tourism endeavors across Illinois.”

Read more: Castro announces $2.4 million available for tourism grant programs

More Articles …

  1. Koehler, Turner highlight $1.8 million to strengthen Illinois’ local food systems
  2. Senate Democrats applaud support limiting diesel fuel costs’ impact on Illinois farmers
  3. Joyce celebrates grand opening of Voortman Steel USA Headquarters in Monee
  4. Harmon, Halpin support Joslin following Tyson Foods facility closure
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