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
Fort Bragg soldier’s trial Dec. 7; dismissal motion expected next month
From California to New Jersey, Muslim men are being arrested for supporting ISIS
Bus driver in I-95 quintuple fatal exits hospital, goes to jail
The U.S. will ‘respond’ to Iran downing Army chopper; ceasefire in question
Vance refers Minnesota fraud allegations to DOJ for investigation
No state charges for Cities Church protesters, federal charges pending
State officials prepared to drop Housing First grant criteria before HUD notice
Independent candidate blasts election measure
Investigation underway following downed Army chopper near Strait of Hormuz
Illinois Quick Hits: Mexican national sentenced for unlawful reentry
Tariff refund class actions lodged vs Ikea, Mondelez, Abercrombie & Fitch
WATCH: Gallagher addresses Assembly, heads to Congress