
Illinois quick hits: Cook County declares flood disaster; opt-out forms promoted; State Fair begins
Cook County, Chicago declare flood disaster
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle have issued respective disaster proclamations for flooding that took place July 25-28.
According to resident survey information, 111 residences were considered to be destroyed and 544 homes had major damage.
City and county agencies are working to determine if the jurisdictions could qualify for federal assistance.
Opt-out forms promoted
After Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation to implement universal mental health screenings in public schools, the Illinois Family Institute is encouraging parents to opt out of programs and agendas which they said could be harmful to children.
The group said Christian parents should be especially alert to the assessment of their children’s well-being through the lens of secular ideologies.
The institute offers links to various opt-out forms on its website.
State Fair begins
The Illinois State Fair is underway in Springfield.
Thursday’s events include harness racing, $3 carnival rides and the Twilight Parade at 5:30 p.m.
The fair runs through Aug. 17.
Latest News Stories

Pritzker acts upon 269 bills, vetoes 2, signs ‘lawsuit inferno’ measure

Report: average American to receive $3,752 tax cut in 2026 due to OBBBA

Republican, Dem work to prevent deportation of entrepreneur

Nevada superintendent says ICE won’t enter schools

MAHA-style bill would close food additive safety loophole

Will County Board Gets Back to Basics with Robert’s Rules of Order Training

Executive Committee Approves Amended Houbolt Bridge Agreement to Settle Litigation

Manhattan Fire District Awards Initial Bids for New Station, Re-bids Four Items to Cut Costs

Meeting Summary and Briefs: Will County Board Committee of the Whole for August 12, 2025

Legislators criticize Illinois’ utility policies as ‘unsustainable’
