POLICE MEMORIAL CEREMONY
This week at the Capitol, we gathered with law enforcement officers and families from across the state to pay tribute to Illinois’ fallen police officers. This solemn ceremony honors the bravery, service, and sacrifice of those who lost their lives in the line of duty. We were honored to recognize these heroes and their loved ones. Bless our fallen officers and all those who protect our communities.
BACON DAY AT THE CAPITOL
Also this week at the Capitol, we celebrated Illinois Bacon Day. Members of the Illinois Pork Producers Association, along with FFA state officers, were on hand distributing delicious bacon treats and talking to legislators about the role pork production plays in our state. This is one of my favorite days of the year, and I want to thank all of our pig farmers for the critical role you play in our keeping our economic engine moving!
SNAP BENEFITS
Did you lose your SNAP benefits because of the new federal SNAP work requirements? The federal government made changes to SNAP, and some customers lost benefits on May 1, 2026, if they weren’t meeting or exempt from new work requirements.
Check to see if you can file an exemption here.
Customers can regain eligibility and meet the new work requirements by working, volunteering, or participating in a training or education program. Check here.
PROPERTY TAXES
Illinois families pay the highest property tax rates in the nation. Illinoisans are taxed out. That’s why we’ve introduced a collection of legislation to provide real tax relief to working families and make Illinois a more affordable place to live, work, learn, and grow.
AGRICULTURE
The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers technical and financial assistance for ag producers impacted by adverse weather events. Here’s what farmers should know.
GRANTS
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has announced $56 million in funding is available for the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) for Public Infrastructure ($25 million), Housing Rehabilitation ($15 million), Community Revitalization ($13 million), and Emergency Assistance ($3 million). Grantees will be selected through a competitive Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) process. Learn more here.
Applications for the USDA’s Specialty Crop Block Grants are now open! This program is intended to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Illinois.
CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESSES
On National Small Business Week, we celebrate the millions of small businesses that are the backbone of the Illinois economy. Thank you to everyone who supports small businesses first!