By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

Get Covered Illinois premiums to spike

The Get Covered Illinois division of the Illinois Department of Insurance says Illinoisans enrolling in state-based health coverage can expect an average 78% increase in monthly premiums for 2026, with higher price spikes expected in Southern Illinois.

Nearly 466,000 Illinoisans purchased health coverage through Get Covered Illinois during open enrollment in 2024, a 17% increase from the previous year. For coverage starting January 1, customers must enroll by December 15. More information is available at GetCoveredIllinois.gov or 1-866-311-1119.

Chicago budget director suggests property tax hike

Although Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson did not include a property tax increase in his 2026 budget proposal, his budget director has suggested a tax levy of more than $1.8 billion.

In a letter to City Clerk Anna Valencia last month, Budget Director Annette Guzman stated the estimated amount of $1,848,501,077 would be “necessary,” according to the city’s Office of Budget and Management. In her letter, Guzman cited the Illinois Truth in Taxation Law.

Marine celebration

Illinois will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps on Monday, Nov. 10, with a ceremonial cake-cutting and program. The Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs has invited all of the state’s past and present Marines to attend the ceremony at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum and Library in Springfield. The annual ceremony honors the sacrifices and achievements of Marines.

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