Carbondale Reporter

The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan has reached its third month at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago. Federal prosecutors have spent the past eight weeks presenting evidence to support their allegations that Madigan engaged in racketeering and bribery conspiracy. Witnesses include elected officials from various levels of government, as well as family members and business leaders.

One of the key witnesses, former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis, concluded his testimony after 21 hours over six days. Solis had recorded conversations with Madigan while serving as Chairman of the City of Chicago’s Zoning Committee, where he attempted to bring business to Madigan’s law firm.

Madigan was indicted in March 2022 on 23 counts related to racketeering, bribery, and official misconduct. These charges are linked to a purported bribery scheme involving Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), Illinois' largest utility company. Madigan served in the Illinois House from 1971 until 2021, holding the position of Speaker for all but two years during his tenure.

In response to these developments, Senate Republicans have introduced legislation aimed at implementing ethics reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future. The trial is anticipated to continue into the new year.

State Senator Terri Bryant has been active within her district since the legislature adjourned for the holiday break following the 2024 Fall Veto Session. She has engaged with local groups and constituents and attended events to gain insights into community issues. During this break, Senators also begin drafting bills for submission in the upcoming General Assembly session starting January 8, 2025.

Before Inauguration Day, a "lame duck session" may occur between January 2nd and January 7th when outgoing legislators might vote on controversial legislation without facing political consequences. Previous sessions have seen significant legislative actions such as weapons bans and expansions of abortion services.

A new Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program is now available through the office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal. This program offers grants up to $350,000 for fire station construction or rehabilitation projects statewide, with a total fund of $5 million available. Eligible departments must meet specific registration requirements and report incidents via NFIRS over a two-year period ending November 2024. Applications are due by February 28, 2025.

As winter approaches, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) urges residents to protect themselves against seasonal respiratory illnesses amid rising cases predicted during holiday gatherings. October saw a significant increase in whooping cough cases—the highest monthly total in two decades—with more than double last year's numbers for October alone. IDPH recommends ensuring good ventilation at gatherings and practicing hygiene measures like hand washing and covering coughs.

For further information about health precautions or grant applications mentioned above, resources are available online.