Carbondale Reporter

This week, a variety of legislative activities took place at the Illinois Capitol, including committee meetings and sessions. Among the highlights was the recognition of Dr. Patricia Bath during Women's History Month by State Representative Paul Jacobs.

In legal developments, House Minority Leader Tony McCombie filed a brief with the Illinois Supreme Court regarding fair maps in Illinois. McCombie stated, “This is about reinstating voters’ constitutional rights that have been violated by an extreme, partisan gerrymandered map.” The lawsuit seeks to address concerns over voter representation in the state.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability projected a $737 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026 due to weak job growth and expected tax revenue declines. In response, Illinois plans to borrow $725 million through "Build Illinois" bonds for capital projects such as developing a new quantum campus in Chicago.

Homeschool advocates rallied against House Bill 2827, which proposes increased regulations on homeschooling. The bill will be discussed in a committee hearing next week.

Students from Carbondale High School's Skills USA program visited the Capitol as part of their workforce development training. Additionally, Southern Illinois University Carbondale received designation as a Research 1 institution by Carnegie Classifications.

Lastly, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced that voters chose to retain the current state flag following a redesign contest.