Illinois Bill Would Require Separate Restrooms For Women On construction Sites
(Springfield, IL) — Construction companies across Illinois could soon be required to provide separate restroom facilities and menstrual hygiene products for female employees under legislation being considered in Springfield. The proposed law would apply to construction sites with 10 or more employees, including women, that remain active for more than five days. Beth Berendsen of Chicago Women’s Trades said the measure is important for women working in the construction industry, whom she said have faced discrimination and unfair treatment for decades. In addition to requiring separate restroom facilities and hygiene products, the legislation would also require the primary employer, upon request, to provide a private area for nursing mothers to express milk. However, Tom Weber questioned the need for the legislation, saying he was unfamiliar with the issue despite his own experience in the construction industry. Weber also pushed back against the idea that the proposal would be universally beneficial. The measure is among Senate bills facing a deadline to pass the Illinois House later this week.
Ziggy Marley to Play 2026 Illinois State Fair
(Springfield, IL) — Ziggy Marley is joining the list of performers at the Illinois State Fair this summer. The reggae legend will take the Grandstand stage on August 18th. The nine-time GRAMMY Award winner is the eldest son of reggae legends Bob Marley and Rita Marley. His hits include “Tomorrow People,” “True To Myself,” and “Beach in Hawaii.” The 2026 Illinois State Fair is being held August 13th through 23rd in Springfield.
Illinois Expanding Permanent Supportive Housing
(Chicago, IL) — Illinois is expanding permanent supportive housing across the state. The Illinois Housing Development Authority announced 50-million-dollars in state and federal funding to support six new permanent supportive housing developments in Illinois. The investments will create 142 units of affordable housing paired with on-site services for individuals and families living with disabilities, experiencing homelessness, or at risk of housing instability. The developments are in Alsip, East Moline, Joliet, Moline, Mundelein, and Worth.
ISP Warns Public About Text Scam
(Springfield, IL) — The Illinois State Police is warning the public about a text scam circulating the state. Scammers are sending text messages demanding immediate payment or threatening enforcement action. State police urges the public not to click any links, don’t reply “Y” or provide personal information, and delete the message and report it as spam. You should also verify any traffic or vehicle matters through official state websites only.
Pritzker Blasts Johnson’s Efforts To Keep Bears In Chicago
(Chicago, IL) — Governor Pritzker is blasting Mayor Brandon Johnson over his last-ditch efforts to keep the Bears in Chicago. Pritzker says Johnson has “no plan” for the team to remain in the city. The governor called the mayor’s efforts “kind of typical,” accusing Johnson of showing up at the end of the legislative session and making demands. The mayor’s office released a statement, saying the city’s proposal “remains the only plan centered on public ownership alongside a funding mechanism that does not burden property taxpayers while keeping the Bears in Chicago.” Pritzker expects state lawmakers to vote on an amended megaprojects bill by the end of the month, possibly paving the way for the Bears to relocate to Arlington Heights.