Illinois quick hits: $1.57B return on investments; solar-powered manufacturer cuts ribbon

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

$1.57B return on investments

Illinois Treasurer Michael Frerichs says his office made a record $1.57 billion in investment earnings from the state investment portfolio during fiscal year 2025.

Frerichs said his office also made $998 million in gross investment earnings for municipalities and school districts.

The treasurer said every dollar earned in interest is a dollar that lawmakers don’t have to raise in taxes.

Solar-powered manufacturer cuts ribbon

Gov. J.B. Pritzker and other state and local officials have cut the ribbon on a new solar-powered manufacturing facility in Mount Vernon.

Manner Polymers received Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois tax credits for the electric vehicle and solar panel component factory.

The company’s incentive package also included $2.5 million for a new rail spur, funded by state taxpayers.

Illegal gambling warning

As college and professional football seasons get underway, the Sports Betting Alliance of Illinois is warning that the risks of illegal online gaming will rise as companies pass the state’s sports-betting tax onto customers.

The group says the per-wager tax will have the most impact on recreational bettors who place small-dollar wagers, with more than half the bets placed in Illinois at $5 or less.