Illinois Quick Hits: Equity and Inclusion Commission launches mentorship program
(The Center Square) – The Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion has announced the launch of its new Mentor Protégé Program designed to provide certified vendors with structured coaching, mentorship and growth opportunities.
This spring, following The Center Square’s investigation, state lawmakers questioned equity commissioners about their oversight of a sizable decline in the number of state-certified businesses owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities.
Under the new state budget that took effect on Wednesday, the commissioners received pay increases of roughly $5,000 apiece, raising their salaries to about $153,000 per year.
Jared Strong contributed to this story
NASHVILLE H.S. COACH CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ABUSE
A public high school baseball coach has been charged with criminal sexual assault, aggravated sexual abuse and four misdemeanor counts related to obstructing justice.
Chad Malawy, 54, of Nashville, Illinois has been placed on administrative leave from Nashville Community High School.
The charges stem from an investigation by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office and the Nashville Police Department, with forensic help from Illinois State Police.
NEW FEDERAL SWIPE FEE RULES TAKE EFFECT
After new federal rules took effect this week to prevent Illinois and other states from banning fees on the tax and tip portions of credit and debit card payments, the Merchants Payment Coalition said bank and credit union fees could soar for consumers and businesses.
Doug Kantor of the MPC executive committee said in a statement that the rules set a dangerous precedent that endorses unfair price collusion.
The Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday, but lawmakers delayed it to July 1, 2027.
IDOT WARNS OF POSSIBLE PAVEMENT FAILURES
The Illinois Department of Transportation is advising the public to look out for pavement failures due to high temperatures and humidity across the state.
IDOT said pavement buckling and blowouts occur with little warning. The agency urged drivers to stay alert for crews making emergency repairs.
Pavement failures can be reported by calling 800-452-4368 or by reaching out to law enforcement via 911.
Latest News Stories
SpaceX launches record-breaking Falcon 9 flight
Tribal nations ask U.S. Supreme Court to return lawsuit to state court
Hochul blames congressional Republicans for delay in fuel assistance funding
Consumer protection organization warns of partnership between two ‘woke’ tech companies
Illinois House backs controversial ‘Equality for Every Family’ bill after Pritzker changes
WATCH: Trump admin asks SCOTUS to lift Guard restraints; Pritzker opposes ‘head tax’
Poll: Voters trust local governments more than feds to address crime, other issues
Illinois quick hits: Secretary of State accuses ICE of plate swapping; Treasurer celebrates LGBTQ+
Beyond the Gridiron: Warriors Celebrate Seniors and Rally for Pink-Out Night
Fusion nuclear energy one step closer under California law
Law designed to help veterans affected by nuclear testing
WATCH: Pritzker ‘absolutely, foursquare opposed’ to Chicago mayor’s head tax
Illinois quick hits: Elections board splits on Harmon fine; busiest summer at O’Hare
Congressman proposes bipartisan bill to address fentanyl