Illinois Quick Hits: HHS: IL abortion referral rule violates federal law

January 22, 2026/

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By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

(The Center Square) – The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has notified Illinois officials that the state is violating federal law by requiring pro-life physicians and pregnancy centers to participate in abortion referral and promotion.

Thomas More Society attorneys have an open case challenging the law before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.

The HHS Office for Civil Rights asked Illinois to respond within 30 days with assurance that the state would comply or face the suspension or limitation of certain HHS funds.

STATE POLICE: TROOPER STRUCK BY STOLEN CAR IN CHICAGO

Illinois State Police say a driver is facing multiple felony charges after the stolen vehicle he was driving struck a trooper’s squad car in Chicago.

ISP says the trooper’s car was stopped when 29-year-old Demarko T. Hill of Chicago disregarded a red light and crashed into the squad car and another vehicle.

Both Hill and the trooper were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. ISP says Hill was carrying a loaded firearm and was also charged with unlawful possession of cannabis.

RISING HOME SALES

According to Illinois Relators data, Illinois home sales increased 4.2% in 2025 over 2024.

The annual median price of $300,000 statewide was 3.4% higher than in 2024.

The statewide sales of 10,237 homes in December was 2% higher than the December 2024 total of 10,041.

Brett Rowland contributed to this story.

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