Illinois news in brief: Department of Transportation reviews CTA spending plans; Illinois manufacturers kick off ‘Makers on the Move’ tour; Hearings continue on energy legislation
Department of Transportation reviews CTA spending plans
The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an interim final rule barring race- and sex-based contracting requirements from federal grants. In a statement, the federal agency singled out the Chicago Transit Authority with two projects for the Red Line Extension and the Red and Purple Modernization Program put under review totaling $2.1 billion. DOT said the review will ensure no federal dollars go toward discriminatory, illegal and wasteful contracting practices.
Illinois manufacturers kick off ‘Makers on the Move’ tour
The fourth annual “Makers on the Move” statewide bus tour has kicked off. The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center announced visits to facilities, educational institutions and community centers across the state to highlight the manufacturing industry. The first stop Friday was at The Will Group in Chicago, a minority-owned technology producer.
Hearings continue on energy legislation
Hearings continue into sweeping energy legislation that could come up at the Illinois Statehouse later this month. The Illinois House Executive Committee met for a second time to discuss a House amendment to Senate Bill 25, legislation modifying the state’s energy policy with a focus on renewables. A Senate committee heard testimony Thursday.
Latest News Stories
FAA partners with college to train next generation air traffic controllers
Judge denies Madigan’s motion to remain free pending appeal
The U.S. Department of Education launches nationwide tour
Trump takes aim at Chicago crime, no-cash bail while singling out Pritzker
Burrows: Only thing standing in the way of disaster relief are missing Democrats
Trump confirms Nvidia chip agreement
States challenge federal report promoting coal plants
U.S. Supreme Court could rule on Texas lawsuits brought in Democratic-led state courts
WATCH: Illinois In Focus Daily | Monday Aug. 11th, 2025
Illinois quick hits: Judge denies Madigan’s motion; legislator urges action on DCFS interns
Everyday Economics: CPI takes center stage as tariff-driven price pressures mount
Details pending on billions in foreign investments coming from trade deals
Negative net migration is harmful to the economy, economists say
Will County Health Department Seeks $1 Million to Avert ‘Drastic’ Service Cuts from Expiring Grants