Sangamon Sun

The trial of former Illinois House Speaker Mike Madigan has entered its third month at the Dirksen Federal Building in Chicago. Federal prosecutors have presented several key witnesses over the past eight weeks to support their allegations of racketeering and bribery conspiracy against Madigan. Witnesses include elected officials, family members, and business leaders.

Former Chicago Alderman Danny Solis recently concluded his testimony after 21 hours on the stand over six days. Solis, who was Chairman of the City of Chicago’s Zoning Committee, recorded conversations with Madigan while soliciting business for Madigan's law firm.

Madigan was indicted in March 2022 on 23 counts related to a bribery scheme involving Commonwealth Edison (ComEd). He served in the Illinois House from 1971 to 2021, spending most of that time as Speaker. Senate Republicans have introduced legislation for ethics reforms to prevent future abuses of power. The trial is expected to continue into next year.

As the legislature adjourned for the holiday break following the Fall Veto Session, Senator Bennett has been active in his district. He met with local groups and constituents to address community concerns. The break also allows Senators to draft bills for the new General Assembly session beginning January 8, 2025. State Senator-Elect Chris Balkema will succeed Bennett as State Senator of the 53rd district on January 8th.

A "lame duck session" is anticipated between January 2nd and January 7th before newly elected officials are sworn in. Such sessions often see outgoing legislators voting on controversial legislation without fear of political consequences.

The Illinois State Fire Marshall has opened applications for a new Fire Station Construction and Rehabilitation Grant Program. Departments can apply for grants up to $350,000 from a total pool of $5 million available statewide.

Eligible departments must be registered with SAM.gov and compliant with NFIRS from December 2022 through November 2024. Applications are due by February 28, 2025.

Fire safety during holidays is emphasized by statistics from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), highlighting risks associated with decorations and candles during this period.

Finally, Illinois currently owes $2,279,135,655.16 to state vendors with pending vouchers totaling over $35 thousand dollars. This figure does not account for estimated debts like unfunded pension liabilities exceeding $139 billion.