Michael McGrady Stories

Measure would force life insurance companies to pore through past for beneficiaries

By Michael McGrady | Jul 11, 2017

Life insurers would be required to attempt to locate the beneficiaries of unclaimed policies from as far back as 1996 under a bill that passed the General Assembly at the conclusion of the spring legislative session and now awaits Gov. Bruce Rauner's approval.

Sales tax hike takes effect in Macon County

By Michael McGrady | Jul 10, 2017

A sales tax increase took effect on July 1 in Macon County, three months after it won in decisive style after losing only five months before.

Senate bill has designs on taxing 'body art' industry to cover state spending

By Michael McGrady | Jun 8, 2017

Illinois' tattoo and body piercing industries would feel the sting of an expanded state sales tax under a controversial Senate budget proposal that remains under consideration in the current special legislative session.

Freshmen legislators vent frustration at failure of budget deal

By Michael McGrady | Jun 1, 2017

Many freshmen lawmakers say the crash and burn they saw on Wednesday night came about because the Democrats don't know how to drive.

House holds off on bill to tax security industry

By Michael McGrady | Jun 1, 2017

A spending package that would increase taxes on the alarm, private investigation and security industries must wait a little longer after the House voted to delay action on the measure on Wednesday.

More pressure on Mautino to resign after being slapped with $5,000 fine

By Michael McGrady | May 16, 2017

Auditor General Frank Mautino was hit with a $5,000 penalty on Monday for violating a State Board of Elections (SBE) order that he disclose past financial dealings.

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As students cram for finals, UIS faculty go on strike over tenure

By Michael McGrady | May 2, 2017

Faculty members at the University of Illinois-Springfield (UIS) went on strike today after contract negotiations broke down.

The fight is on as the ‘privilege tax’ bill gains traction

By Michael McGrady | Apr 21, 2017

As lawmakers prepare to return from the spring recess, the proposed “privilege tax" bills are gaining wide-ranging support and putting investment industries in the state on the defensive.

House bill authorizing breastfeeding at public schools makes it to floor debate

By Michael McGrady | Apr 21, 2017

After short debate and wide support in committee, a bill mandating that school districts provide reasonable accommodations for a lactating student to breastfeed a child was schedule for a final vote on the House floor before going to the Senate