Critics say the state is keeping the public in the dark and trying to speed a process that they fear may ultimately benefit corporate interests more than people sickened by air pollution.
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Posted inAnalysis, Policy
Examining Another Plan to Shift Pension Costs Back to Schools
Rauner’s proposal to shift state pension obligations for educators back to their employers, local school systems and universities isn’t new or unique to Republicans.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Doubek: Let’s Try Opening Up Ballots and Primaries
Why should you have to tell an election judge you’re a Democrat or Republican?
Posted inAnalysis, Policy
Hate Asking for One Party’s Ballot? Here’s How It’s Done Elsewhere
Every primary election, we hear complaints from family and friends about the fact that they have to ask an election judge for a Democratic, Republican, or Green party ballot. That isn’t so in other states.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Shaw: Illinois Primary Reveals Election Flaws That Need Fixin’
We’re lamenting the system’s failure to give candidates and voters the election they deserve in a healthy democracy, and promoting reforms to consider in the run-up to November.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Public Dollars to Keep Navy Pier Records from the Public: Nearly $670,000
The tab for hiring outside attorneys hits almost $670,000 as the public agency that owns Navy Pier fights in court to block release of records related to operation of the lakefront tourist attraction.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, PolitiFact
Rauner Cites Own Remarks as Proof of Outside Support for Election Night Claim
In a speech to supporters on primary night, Rauner claimed that “newspapers” were now likening his political rivals to the mafia. In reality, one newspaper columnist was quoting Rauner.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Strapped for Cash, Suburban Library Chooses Hiatus over Consolidation
Residents in south suburban Riverdale get locked out of their public library for three months even while continuing to pay taxes to fund it. The secretive library board refuses to open its books and fails to comply with public records and open meetings law.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Leven: Community Commission for Public Safety is Reform with a Capital-R
The Grassroots Alliance for Police Accountability has thrown another major proposal into the mix of Chicago police reform efforts. What is the Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability and might it bring some stability to a volatile period for Chicago police oversight?
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Judge Issues Order to Garnish Bobby Rush’s Congressional Pay
The veteran U.S. House member turned pastor owes more than $1 million tied to a loan on an Englewood church. His $174,000 annual congressional pay is to be docked $2,100 a month.