New laws: Rideshare unionization, drug-pricing oversight, plastic pellets

By Peter Hancock, Brenden Moore &, Jerry NowickiCapitol News Illinoisnews@capitolnewsillinois.com Rideshare drivers can unionize in Illinois, a new law seeks to regulate and classify plastic pellets as a pollutant, and the State will exercise greater oversight of a federal prescription drug discount program. Those are a few of the 75

Pritzker, Bailey farm forum

By Ben SzalinskiCapitol News Illinoisbszalinski@capitolnewsillinois.com Illinois farmers heard pitches from incumbent governor JB Pritzker and downstate Republican farmer Darren Bailey, Monday as each argued they’re best positioned to address agricultural issues. Bailey, a former State lawmaker who was also his party’s nominee for governor in 2022, told the crowd at

Reader’s Voice: Investments that keep Kane County moving

August 7, 2026Dear editor; As Kane County continues to grow, so must a transportation system that keeps pace with the needs of our residents, businesses, and economy. That is why I support the Illinois Tollway’s proposed toll increase and the long-term investments it will make in the Interstate 88 and

Diabetes Club of Fox Valley’s first ‘Craft & Vendor Fair’, set for September 12, in Aurora; Diabetes Club promotes awareness at National Night Out

By Russ George The Diabetes Club of Fox Valley participated in Aurora’s Fifth Ward National Night Out (NNO), Tuesday, Aug. 4, at the Salvation Army facility, 550 Redwood Drive, in Aurora. Members handed out information on prediabetes, diabetes, healthy eating, and our new diabetic recipes booklet. Children enjoyed picking through

Montgomery Fest August 14-16

Montgomery Fest, one of the community’s favorite summer traditions, will return August 14-16, and bring three days of live entertainment, family activities, carnival rides, food, local vendors, and community celebrations to Montgomery Park.This year’s fest will offer something for everyone, with several exciting additions and expanded activities throughout the weekend.For

Lighting the Way to a Safer Aurora community event

Project Safe Aurora invites residents of all ages to Lighting the Way to a Safer Aurora, a free community event celebrating resilience, healing, and community connection Saturday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Bardwell Residences, 301 Weston Ave., Aurora. Guests can enjoy free tacos, live music, family-friendly

Naperville invites students to get involved in government

The City of Naperville government will offer two opportunities for Naperville resident students to participate in local government. Students can apply for student representative positions on the City’s boards and commissions or serve as a chief of staff to mayor Wehrli through the KidsMatter – Mayor’s Chief of Staff internship.

Pritzker writes to Trump, seeking tariff refunds for Illinois families

By Maggie DoughertyCapitol News Illinoismdougherty@capitolnewsillinois.com After the U.S. Treasury paid out $100 billion in tariff refunds to corporations at the end of last month, Illinois governor JB Pritzker wants to know where Illinois’ cut is. In a letter sent to president Donald Trump August 6, Pritzker asked the president to

Preparing for CAPE Con 2026 at Aurora Public Library

The first clues are subtle: A few more questions about costume design, increased activity around the graphic novels, and more visitors searching for Pokémon books, tabletop roleplaying games, and video games. Before we know it, hundreds of artists, gamers, and cosplayers will descend upon the Aurora Public Library District for