AGRICULTURE
As harvest season is underway, here is a closer look at the status of Illinois’ most important crops. What’s Going on With Illinois Crops?
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has announced that it will accept sealed bids this fall for about 20 agricultural lease contracts for crop years 2026-2030. Learn much more here: IDNR to accept bids for agriculture leases for 2026-2030
HARVEST SEASON SAFETY
The Illinois State Police (ISP) reminds motorists and farmers about traffic safety on Illinois roadways this fall. Agriculture is one of the leading industries in Illinois and farmers across the state will be moving equipment along roadways throughout the upcoming months. As farmers travel between fields, ISP reminds motorists and farmers alike to share the road to help reduce crashes involving tractors and other farm equipment.
ISP encourages motorists to follow these safe driving tips this harvest season:
- Share the road and be patient. Allow for extra travel time.
- Increase following distance to improve sight lines when driving behind wide, slow-moving vehicles.
- Reduce speed when encountering farm equipment on public roads.
- Flashing amber lights mean ‘caution’ and orange and red reflective triangles warn motorists that farm equipment travels at slower speeds.
- It is illegal to pass in a no passing lane or within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing, or bridge. Improper passing, including around farm equipment, can be deadly. Be cautious when pulling back into the lane of traffic.
- Watch for the farmer’s indication of a turn. Newer equipment may have turn signals, but older equipment may not, so watch for the farmer’s hand signals.
- Be prepared to yield to wide equipment.
JOBS
The Illinois Pork Producers Association’s new apprenticeship program will prepare career seekers for success in the pork industry. Illinois pork producers tackle labor gap
FIREARMS
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon is getting involved in a case challenging Illinois Democrats’ firearms ban. Here’s what you should know. Justice Department’s civil rights boss takes on Illinois assault weapons ban – Chicago Sun-Times
FIRST RESPONDERS
First responders often work long hours, put themselves in dangerous situations, and deal with high-stress environments to ensure the safety and well-being of others. Supporting these heroes is one of our top priorities.
Learn how we are standing up for first responders in Illinois: The Caucus Blog of the Illinois House Republicans: Standing Up for First Responders
AGENCY MISMANAGEMENT
State agency mismanagement continues under the Pritzker administration. Illinois corrections officials acknowledge they haven’t been able to calculate recidivism rates since 2022 due to a “programming issue.” Illinois state prisons can’t compute recidivism rates
RIP CHARLIE KIRK
I am heartbroken and angered at the shocking and horrific act of violence that took the life of Charlie Kirk earlier this week. It is beyond disturbing and frightening that hatred can escalate to the level where lives are ended in this manner. My prayers are with Charlie’s family and friends and all who knew him. We must be able to embrace free speech and the open exchange of ideas. Violence is never the answer to political differences.
REMEMBERING SEPTEMBER 11
Yesterday, we observed Patriot Day, which is a solemn occasion to remember the lives lost in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. We remember all of those who were killed at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, and Somerset County, Pennsylvania.
This was also a day to honor the courage of first responders and the resilience of communities across the nation. We must never forget!
FALL OFFICE HOURS
Starting this month, we have resumed our Fall schedule for our three District Offices. Office hours are now 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Tuesday – El Paso (125 W. Front St. – 309-370-6235)
Wednesday – Metamora (101 E. Partridge St. – 309-370-6235)
Thursday – Pontiac (305 W. Madison St. – 815-844-9344)