(SPRINGFIELD) The Liberty Justice Center has filed a First Amendment lawsuit to challenge a recently enacted Illinois law that would prohibit companies from holding mandatory meetings where “religious or political matters” are discussed. While the Center says the new law enacted on July 31st is misleadingly titled “Worker Freedom of Speech Act,” it actually does nothing to protect workers’ freedom of speech, but rather infringes on the free speech rights of employees. The lawsuit says the law violates the First Amendment.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is accepting public comment regarding abandoned mine lands and related reclamation projects. In fact, the state was awarded $75 million for land and water reclamation work at 55 abandoned mine sites all around Illinois. The money can be used to address abandoned coal mine problems, such as hazards resulting from legacy mining, environmental safety, and water supply restoration.
(SPRINGFIELD) The 2024 Illinois State Fair continues in Springfield with today being noted as Agriculture Day with harness racing, livestock shows, the cutest little farmer contest, and the fair’s first grandstand performance tonight featuring Keith Urban with Mackenzie Porter. Then tomorrow is Kids Day with various contests, more harness racing & livestock shows, the parade of champions, the Wooten Rodeo in The Arena, and on stage Motley Crue with Phil X & The Drills. Sunday will be Veterans Day & Gold Star Families Day with all Veterans and their immediate families admitted free with Veterans Day activities & parade, more livestock shows, and on stage that night, Jason Isbell & The 400 Unit with Ashley McBryde. Next Monday will be Senior Citizens Day & Scout Day with more livestock shows and the ITPA truck & tractor pulls in The Arena that night. Everyday activities includes various shows & activities at Conservation World, plus all the great fair food stands, other entertainment, carnival rides, & more. Stay up-to-date at the statefair.illinois.gov website.