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Sangamon Sun

Monday, July 7, 2025

Illinois State Rep. Mike Coffey (R-Springfield)

Recent News About Illinois State Rep. Mike Coffey (R-Springfield)

  • Rep. Mike Coffey discusses child welfare with local organization

    This week, Representative Mike Coffey met with the staff of The Center for Youth and Family Solutions to discuss challenges within the state's child welfare system. The meeting aimed to explore solutions that would enhance services for children, families, and communities.

  • Proposed Grain Belt Express faces legal challenges over financing requirements

    The proposed "Grain Belt Express" transmission line, intended to carry wind-generated electricity from the Kansas Great Plains to Indiana, faces an uncertain future as it encounters resistance from private property owners in Central Illinois. The 800-mile high-voltage line is designed to transport green energy but would be constructed on private lands, raising concerns among local residents.

  • Illinois celebrates National Senior Citizen Day with events and activities

    Today, Illinois joins the nation in celebrating National Senior Citizen Day, a day dedicated to honoring the wisdom and experience of senior citizens. The observance, established by President Ronald Reagan in 1988, falls on the third Sunday of August each year.

  • Illinois unemployment rises; Morton Salt relocates headquarters

    Illinois' unemployment rate rose to 5.2 percent in July, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES). The increase of 0.2 percentage points comes as nonfarm payrolls grew by 12,900 during the same period, based on preliminary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The revised unemployment rate for June remained at 5.0 percent, while the change in payrolls was adjusted from an initial increase of 10,400 jobs to a decrease of 4,300 jobs.

  • State Representative Mike Coffey introduces bills supporting Illinois veterans

    State Representative Mike Coffey is advocating for veterans in Illinois through several legislative measures aimed at improving their quality of life. Rep. Coffey, a Republican from Springfield, has emphasized the importance of supporting those who have served in the military.

  • Strategies for Illinois families facing rising back-to-school costs

    With sky-high inflation still impacting hard-working Illinois families and the new school year set to begin, it’s important to consider ways to save money. Food prices, gasoline costs, interest rates, rent, and almost all living expenses continue to rise with little end in sight. Saving money in the current economic climate may not be easy, but there are tips and strategies that can be utilized to help families.

  • Illinois honors Air National Guard's legacy on National Airborne Day

    Today on National Airborne Day, the Illinois Air National Guard is being celebrated for its enduring commitment to both state and national defense. Established in 1927, this military reserve unit has evolved from its early days of aerial reconnaissance to playing a critical role in modern national defense and humanitarian missions.

  • Illinois State Fire Marshal announces grant program for firefighting equipment

    The Illinois State Fire Marshal is now accepting applications for the Small Equipment Grant Program. Grants of up to $26,000 are being provided for the purchase of small firefighting and ambulance equipment. All interested departments should send an application to OSFM electronically or postmarked no later than October 1, 2024.

  • Rep. Coffey attends Ag Day at Illinois State Fair

    Rep. Coffey attended Ag Day at the Illinois State Fair on August 13, 2024, where he engaged with the community and explored the significance of agriculture to Illinois. The state is a major producer of soybeans, corn, and swine, benefiting from its diverse climate and soil types which support various agricultural commodities such as cattle, wheat, oats, sorghum, hay, sheep, poultry, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, Illinois cultivates specialty crops including buckwheat, horseradish, ostriches, fish and Christmas trees.

  • Drivers urged to prioritize safety as schools reopen

    As the back-to-school season begins, increased activity involving children, families, and buses is expected on daily commutes. Authorities urge drivers to prioritize safety by slowing down near bus stops and school zones.

  • Illinois considers halving prison sentences amid rising unemployment rates

    A proposed bill in Illinois could potentially reduce prison sentences by half, sparking debate over its fairness. House Bill 5219, sponsored by state Rep. Barbara Hernandez and co-sponsored by Kevin John Olickal and Lilian Jimenez, aims to allow inmates convicted of severe felonies, including first-degree murder and aggravated predatory criminal sexual assault of a child, to serve only half their imposed sentences.

  • Rep. Coffey's bill expanding scholarships for children of veterans passes Illinois House

    State Representative Mike Coffey expressed his gratitude to veterans for their service, stating, "Thank you, veterans for your sacrifices to protect the freedom of our great nation. We owe you a debt of gratitude for safeguarding the ideals of our founding fathers and you will always be a pivotal part of our communities."

  • Online applications launched by IDFPR streamline licensing process

    The professional licensure system has been a significant issue for professionals who need a license to work in Illinois. On Monday, August 12, the following applications for professional licensure will be available online from IDFPR for the first time. Professionals can create an account to complete and submit their application.

  • Purple Heart Day honors recipients; Rep. Coffey's bill passes unanimously

    On Purple Heart Day, the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of all Purple Heart recipients are recognized. Their bravery serves as a beacon of resilience and unity for all. According to the National Purple Heart Hall of Honor, more than 1.8 million Purple Heart medals have been presented to service members since the award was created in 1782.

  • Rep. Coffey advocates for senior citizen protections amid rising costs

    Representative Coffey is advocating for measures aimed at protecting senior citizens in Illinois from financial burdens exacerbated by high inflation and rising living costs. “High inflation and the cost of living impacts families and retirees across Illinois. I’m proud to back legislation to protect senior citizens and their retirement income to ensure tax relief for those that need it the most. I will always back legislation that supports a cause to make Illinois a more affordable and safer place to live,” stated Coffey.

  • Community attends Touch-A-Truck event; new fire station inaugurated

    A recent Touch-A-Truck community event saw enthusiastic participation from local children, who eagerly explored police cruisers and a fire truck alongside their friends. The event aimed to foster positive interactions between kids and first responders while providing educational experiences.

  • Rep. Coffey attends opening of new fire station in 95th District

    Rep. Coffey joined stakeholders at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Fire Station #13, located on Spaulding Orchard Road. The station aims to enhance emergency response coverage in areas such as Panther Creek and Piper Glen.

  • Illinois celebrates state vegetable on Sweet Corn Appreciation Day

    Today marks Illinois Sweet Corn Appreciation Day, celebrating the state's official vegetable, sweet corn. Residents are encouraged to enjoy locally grown sweet corn while it is in season.

  • Rep. Coffey hosts Touch-A-Truck event at Lincoln Park on Aug. 2

    State Representative Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) will be hosting a Touch-A-Truck Event on August 2nd at Lincoln Park in Springfield, starting at 10:00 a.m. Parents and children from the community are encouraged to attend for the opportunity to explore fire trucks, police cars, and meet first responders.

  • Easing transition processes for military families relocating to Illinois

    Military service members and their spouses who move to Illinois will find it less complicated than just a few years ago to obtain professional licensure in the Land of Lincoln. Whether a service member is transitioning to civilian life or their spouse is transitioning to a new residence, the state of Illinois is poised to smooth the way.