By Lily Padula Over the past three decades, the Illinois state government's personnel levels have undergone notable shifts, shaped by economic cycles, policy changes, and evolving administrative practices. The number of full-time…
by Lily PadulaPlease note: This report reflects the most current information available as of July 10, 2025. For more details on how Medicaid works and information on previous proposals, please refer to our…
This report is part of a three-part educational series on what's at stake for CPS in FY2026 and beyond. Click here to view the one-page summary…
by A.D. Quig, Olivia Olander, and Jeremy…
by Ben SzalinskiJune 6, 2025
Dear Governor Pritzker, President Harmon, Speaker Welch, Leader Curran, and Leader McCombie:As we enter the final days of session, our collection of civic organizations is concerned about a final push for pension legislation that could…
By Daniel Vesecky Please note: This report reflects the most current information available as of May 22, 2025. For updated information on the impact of the bill signed into law on July 4, 2025, please refer to our…
This report is part of a series highlighting the real-world consequences of Illinois’ complex and overlapping government structure. To explore the other reports in this series, please visit:…
By Roland CaliaIntroductionState debt burden—a state’s total financial liability from various forms of borrowing, including bonds, loans, and related financing instruments—is one of the core indicators of a government’s fiscal health,…
