News to Use
Gun Violence Prevention
August, 2020 Links to various articles related to Gun Violence Prevention. Click HERE to read the details.
August, 2020 Links to various articles related to Gun Violence Prevention. Click HERE to read the details.
Two-Thirds of Americans Think Government Should Do More on Climate: Click HERE to read the article
Increased racist attacks and discrimination against Asian American community
April 16, 2020
Dear Member of Congress
On behalf of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), the Democracy Initiative, and the undersigned organizations, we are writing to denounce the continued increase in racist attacks and discrimination against the Asian American community, and to express our support for H.Res. 908, introduced by Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-6) and its Senate companion to be introduced by Senators Kamala Harris (D-CA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI); both of which condemn all forms of anti-Asian sentiment related to COVID- 19.
Click HERE to read the full letter.
April 16, 2020
Dear Member of Congress
On behalf of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), the Democracy Initiative, and the undersigned organizations, we are writing to denounce the continued increase in racist attacks and discrimination against the Asian American community, and to express our support for H.Res. 908, introduced by Representative Grace Meng (D-NY-6) and its Senate companion to be introduced by Senators Kamala Harris (D-CA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI); both of which condemn all forms of anti-Asian sentiment related to COVID- 19.
Click HERE to read the full letter.
LWV Illinois October 2019 Issues Report
Click HERE to read more.
Click HERE to read more.
2019 Transformer Awards Video
Transform Illinois explores the connection between reducing the size, scope and cost of local government and Illinois’ property tax burden.
Click HERE to watch.
Transform Illinois explores the connection between reducing the size, scope and cost of local government and Illinois’ property tax burden.
Click HERE to watch.
State of Change Illinois -- 2019 Report
Click HERE to read more.
SB1236: County good governance omnibus
2020 Census appropriation
SB2090: County jail ballot access
HB348: McHenry Co. township consolidation referendum bill
HB2265: Middle school civics education
HB2541: Re-Entering Citizens Civics Education Act
Click HERE to read more.
SB1236: County good governance omnibus
2020 Census appropriation
SB2090: County jail ballot access
HB348: McHenry Co. township consolidation referendum bill
HB2265: Middle school civics education
HB2541: Re-Entering Citizens Civics Education Act
Illinois - 2019 Transformation Report -- List of passed legislative items.
The list includes the DISSOLUTION of several boards. Click HERE to read more about it.
The list includes the DISSOLUTION of several boards. Click HERE to read more about it.
LWV Cook County Representative Needed
We are seeking an additional representative to attend monthly Cook County LWV meetings.
Click HERE for the full job description.
Library of Congress Suffragist Transcription
The LWV Palatine Area met on April 16, 2019 to review the presentation on the 2 year Barrington and Palatine Township Study. At the meeting, participants discussed whether to collapse the Barrington and Palatine Townships into one Township, or to eliminate both Townships altogether. Nearly 16,000 pages of diaries, letters, speeches, and other documents are available on the library's crowdsourcing platform. The Library is now calling on volunteers to help transcribe the digitized papers of suffragists to make these historical materials more accessible.
Click HERE for more information.
Plastics Recycling Guide
Every year, the average American goes through more than 250 pounds of plastic waste, and much of that comes from packaging. So what do we do with it all? This interactive explores some of the plastics the recycling system was designed to handle and explains why other plastic packaging shouldn’t go in your recycling bin.
League of Women Voters of Illinois Climate Emergency Resolution
At the LWV Illinois convention in June the Climate Emergency Resolution was adopted. It is a call for action for Leagues to advocate for “Climate Emergency Declarations” at all levels of government.
Click HERE to read the full report.
Palatine Area Township Study Summary
The LWV Palatine Area met on April 16, 2019 to review the presentation on the 2 year Barrington and Palatine Township Study. At the meeting, participants discussed whether to collapse the Barrington and Palatine Townships into one Township, or to eliminate both Townships altogether.
Click HERE to read the full summary.
Affordable Housing Resources
At the July 24th Drinks and Discussion, we learned about Affordable Housing in Illinois and its significance for and impact on members of our community, especially seniors. Below, we've included links with a summary of the presentation and additional resources for continued learning.
Click HERE to read the full summary.
Additional Resources:
"Senior Housing Share is On the Rise"
"Senior Home Sharing"
"Lawmakers Moving Towards Raising Property Taxes to Fund Affordable Housing"
"Not Telling the Whole Story: Media and Organizational Discourse about Affordable Housing"
CANNABIS LEGALIZATION TOWN HALL
Sponsored by Camille Lilly and Don Harmon
Democratic Party of Oak Park
June 20, 2019
The first Town Hall on the soon to be Cannabis Legalization Law was held in Austin, a majority minority community on Chicago’s West Side. The event was attended by approximately 50 African American area residents. Rep. Camille Lilly moderated the event, with Sen. Don Harmon and Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson also participating. Rep. Kelly Cassidy was the guest speaker.
Click HERE to read the full report.
We are seeking an additional representative to attend monthly Cook County LWV meetings.
Click HERE for the full job description.
Library of Congress Suffragist Transcription
The LWV Palatine Area met on April 16, 2019 to review the presentation on the 2 year Barrington and Palatine Township Study. At the meeting, participants discussed whether to collapse the Barrington and Palatine Townships into one Township, or to eliminate both Townships altogether. Nearly 16,000 pages of diaries, letters, speeches, and other documents are available on the library's crowdsourcing platform. The Library is now calling on volunteers to help transcribe the digitized papers of suffragists to make these historical materials more accessible.
Click HERE for more information.
Plastics Recycling Guide
Every year, the average American goes through more than 250 pounds of plastic waste, and much of that comes from packaging. So what do we do with it all? This interactive explores some of the plastics the recycling system was designed to handle and explains why other plastic packaging shouldn’t go in your recycling bin.
League of Women Voters of Illinois Climate Emergency Resolution
At the LWV Illinois convention in June the Climate Emergency Resolution was adopted. It is a call for action for Leagues to advocate for “Climate Emergency Declarations” at all levels of government.
Click HERE to read the full report.
Palatine Area Township Study Summary
The LWV Palatine Area met on April 16, 2019 to review the presentation on the 2 year Barrington and Palatine Township Study. At the meeting, participants discussed whether to collapse the Barrington and Palatine Townships into one Township, or to eliminate both Townships altogether.
Click HERE to read the full summary.
Affordable Housing Resources
At the July 24th Drinks and Discussion, we learned about Affordable Housing in Illinois and its significance for and impact on members of our community, especially seniors. Below, we've included links with a summary of the presentation and additional resources for continued learning.
Click HERE to read the full summary.
Additional Resources:
"Senior Housing Share is On the Rise"
"Senior Home Sharing"
"Lawmakers Moving Towards Raising Property Taxes to Fund Affordable Housing"
"Not Telling the Whole Story: Media and Organizational Discourse about Affordable Housing"
CANNABIS LEGALIZATION TOWN HALL
Sponsored by Camille Lilly and Don Harmon
Democratic Party of Oak Park
June 20, 2019
The first Town Hall on the soon to be Cannabis Legalization Law was held in Austin, a majority minority community on Chicago’s West Side. The event was attended by approximately 50 African American area residents. Rep. Camille Lilly moderated the event, with Sen. Don Harmon and Cook County Commissioner Brandon Johnson also participating. Rep. Kelly Cassidy was the guest speaker.
Click HERE to read the full report.
Tour of Cook County Jail Health Services on May 23, 2019
We had the pleasure of touring the 2 main buildings that comprise the health services at Cook County Jail on 5/23/19 from 9:30 AM until 12:30PM. The LWVCC was represented by Jan Goldberg, Bev Graham, Michele Niccolai, and Linda Christianson. We were also joined by 3 employees of the Communications Dept. at Stroger Hospital. Our tour guides were the CEO of Correctional Health, Linda Follenweider and Dr. Connie Mennella, the Chair of Medical Services.
The tour was thorough and comprehensive and both women answered our many questions patiently.
Click HERE to read the report.
We had the pleasure of touring the 2 main buildings that comprise the health services at Cook County Jail on 5/23/19 from 9:30 AM until 12:30PM. The LWVCC was represented by Jan Goldberg, Bev Graham, Michele Niccolai, and Linda Christianson. We were also joined by 3 employees of the Communications Dept. at Stroger Hospital. Our tour guides were the CEO of Correctional Health, Linda Follenweider and Dr. Connie Mennella, the Chair of Medical Services.
The tour was thorough and comprehensive and both women answered our many questions patiently.
Click HERE to read the report.
Cook County League of Women Voters Observer Report
May 16, 2019
Meeting Name: Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)
BOARD PASSES AMENDMENT TO THE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE Click HERE
May 16, 2019
Meeting Name: Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)
BOARD PASSES AMENDMENT TO THE WATERSHED MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE Click HERE
Climate Change and the Mississippi. LWV UMRR's Annual Meeting will take place at Schaar's Bluff on the river near Hastings, Minnesota, on June 1. Our speakers will be John Linc Stine, Executive Director of the Freshwater Society and Matt Gladue, Program Director, for Our Mississippi Our Future, (The Nature Conservancy). We will focus on climate change, what it means for the Mississippi and what can be done to mitigate the impacts. Visit our website to see the agenda and register! Click Here to see the flier.
Environmental Updates from the General Assembly
By the Illinois Environmental Council
It has been a busy week in Springfield for the IEC team, with ten of our priority bills passing out of committee and heading to the next stage of the legislative process!
Today marks the deadline for Senate bills to move out of committee, and next Friday will be the House committee deadline. So far, this session is shaping up to be a good one for the people and wildlife relying on the General Assembly to craft policies that protect a healthy, flourishing environment in Illinois. That said, a great deal of work remains this session, and we'll be keeping you in the loop!
Click HERE to read more about it!
By the Illinois Environmental Council
It has been a busy week in Springfield for the IEC team, with ten of our priority bills passing out of committee and heading to the next stage of the legislative process!
Today marks the deadline for Senate bills to move out of committee, and next Friday will be the House committee deadline. So far, this session is shaping up to be a good one for the people and wildlife relying on the General Assembly to craft policies that protect a healthy, flourishing environment in Illinois. That said, a great deal of work remains this session, and we'll be keeping you in the loop!
Click HERE to read more about it!
ABC’s And Things Environmental
By Regina Gomez, Environmental Specialist
Have you heard more about climate change in the daily news? Are you wondering just how urgent this problem really is? Do you need some help figuring out where this issue falls on the long list of things you feel are important?
Click HERE to read more about it
By Regina Gomez, Environmental Specialist
Have you heard more about climate change in the daily news? Are you wondering just how urgent this problem really is? Do you need some help figuring out where this issue falls on the long list of things you feel are important?
Click HERE to read more about it
Cook County Forest Preserve welcomes back the Boy Scouts, FP agreement with Bike and Roll for bike rentals. Click HERE to read more.
Farm
Landowner Workshop
Co-sponsored
by the Izaak Walton League and the League of Women Voters Upper Mississippi
River Region
Saturday,
March 09, 2019 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM CT
Click HERE read more.
PRE-TRIAL SYSTEMS: Report of the Criminal Justice Interest Group, League of Women Voters of Cook County, December 2015. Click HERE to read more.
Facts Contradict Sheriff Dart’s Fear-Mongering about Bond Reform, Cook County Is Leading In Pretrial Justice Reforms.
Last night, (Feb 27) ABC-7 ran a misleading story on the impact of bond reform in Cook County. The one-sided piece was informed by Sheriff Tom Dart, who believes that reforms to Cook County’s pretrial justice system have “gone too far.” Sheriff Dart has recently begun pushing for a more conservative, law-and-order approach to pretrial incarceration, including objecting to the release of people pretrial. It is important for there to be an ongoing dialogue across the County as pretrial justice reform progresses, but Sheriff Dart’s fear-mongering is not a productive part of that conversation. Instead, he calls upon racialized stereotypes of people accused of crimes to provoke unwarranted panic rather than a solutions-oriented response supported by data, that centers community wellness. The Sheriff’s assertions about the current state of electronic monitoring (EM) are plagued by vague and unclarified statements that demand context. Click HERE to read more.
Dark Money Finds Local Elections
Dark money has reached Illinois politics, with voters increasingly finding themselves facing ads and mailers paid for by unknown sources with unknown motives. Click here to read more about it.
Posted Dec 2018
Dark money has reached Illinois politics, with voters increasingly finding themselves facing ads and mailers paid for by unknown sources with unknown motives. Click here to read more about it.
Posted Dec 2018
Democracy Wins at the Ballot Box with Voting Rights Expansion in 2018 Midterms11/8/2018
Washington, DC – Voters Tuesday cast ballots on issues from healthcare to marijuana use, but when it came to issues of elections, voters overwhelmingly selected to expand voting rights.
Click here to read more about it!
Washington, DC – Voters Tuesday cast ballots on issues from healthcare to marijuana use, but when it came to issues of elections, voters overwhelmingly selected to expand voting rights.
Click here to read more about it!
KEWANEE CORRECTIONAL CENTER Visit
November 8, 2018
On November 8, Laura Davis, Patti Lackman and Beverly Graham visited the Kewanee Correctional Center, a multi-level security, re-entry facility. We were given a 2-hour tour by the Assistant Warden of Programs, Jennifer Parrack.
Click HERE to read more about it.
November 8, 2018
On November 8, Laura Davis, Patti Lackman and Beverly Graham visited the Kewanee Correctional Center, a multi-level security, re-entry facility. We were given a 2-hour tour by the Assistant Warden of Programs, Jennifer Parrack.
Click HERE to read more about it.
October 11, 2018
Contact: Alisa Kaplan | (312) 436-1274 | alisa@reformforillinois.org
How We Vote: Is Colorado the Future?
On October 1 & 2, Reform for Illinois brought together community leaders, voting experts, and elected officials to discuss the future of voting in Illinois.
Would you change the way you vote? Take our poll below the article.
Long lines, staffing shortages, aging equipment… as Election Day approaches, these are just a few of the concerns confronting voters and election officials alike. Can changing the way we run elections avoid these problems while making it easier to vote?
Colorado is the latest proving ground for that possibility. Amber McReynolds, former elections director for the City of Denver, described Colorado’s innovative new mail-in voting system during a Reform for Illinois panel on Oct. 2. She said that while every state is different, in Colorado the system has made casting ballots easier while reducing the costs and administrative burdens of running elections.
Moderated by Reform for Illinois Policy Director Alisa Kaplan, the panel included McReynolds of the National Vote at Home Coalition, Jim Allen from the Chicago Board of Elections, Calmetta Coleman from the Chicago Urban League, Ami Gandhi from the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, Noah Praetz from the Cook County Clerk’s Office, state Rep. LaShawn Ford from the 8th District and Cheryl Jansen from Equip for Equality, an advocacy group for people with disabilities.
Click Here to read the entire article.
Contact: Alisa Kaplan | (312) 436-1274 | alisa@reformforillinois.org
How We Vote: Is Colorado the Future?
On October 1 & 2, Reform for Illinois brought together community leaders, voting experts, and elected officials to discuss the future of voting in Illinois.
Would you change the way you vote? Take our poll below the article.
Long lines, staffing shortages, aging equipment… as Election Day approaches, these are just a few of the concerns confronting voters and election officials alike. Can changing the way we run elections avoid these problems while making it easier to vote?
Colorado is the latest proving ground for that possibility. Amber McReynolds, former elections director for the City of Denver, described Colorado’s innovative new mail-in voting system during a Reform for Illinois panel on Oct. 2. She said that while every state is different, in Colorado the system has made casting ballots easier while reducing the costs and administrative burdens of running elections.
Moderated by Reform for Illinois Policy Director Alisa Kaplan, the panel included McReynolds of the National Vote at Home Coalition, Jim Allen from the Chicago Board of Elections, Calmetta Coleman from the Chicago Urban League, Ami Gandhi from the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, Noah Praetz from the Cook County Clerk’s Office, state Rep. LaShawn Ford from the 8th District and Cheryl Jansen from Equip for Equality, an advocacy group for people with disabilities.
Click Here to read the entire article.
Benefits of Future Energy Jobs Act Starting to Show
Thanks to our members and supporters like you, the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) is one of the most significant and historic pieces of clean energy legislation ever to pass the Illinois General Assembly. It resulted from years of negotiations between utilities, consumer advocates, clean energy businesses, and environmental and environmental justice groups.
Job training programs authorized under FEJA are also underway, including the "Solar Training Pipeline Program," which trains solar installers who are from low-income and environmental justice communities, alumni of the Illinois foster care system, and returning citizens, with a job placement goal of 2,000 individuals by 2029. Training providers like Illinois Central College in Peoria, Opportunity Advancement Innovation in Chicago, and Elevate Energy in Chicago and Carbondale have already either started or graduated their first class of between 15 and 30 participants, and several graduates have already been hired or actively being considered for employment. Vivint Solar recently announced its intention to create over 100 jobs in Illinois, primarily in the residential market, and Sunrun over 80 positions. Ranger Power, developer of the utility-scale solar farm in southern Perry County, expects to create around 200 jobs in construction.
These numbers will only continue to increase as more solar and wind systems are awarded incentives under FEJA and break ground in 2019 and beyond. The benefits of FEJA are just getting started, bringing cleaner air, lower utility bills, economic development, job creation, tax base growth, and other benefits to communities all over the State. Read more here.
Thanks to our members and supporters like you, the Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) is one of the most significant and historic pieces of clean energy legislation ever to pass the Illinois General Assembly. It resulted from years of negotiations between utilities, consumer advocates, clean energy businesses, and environmental and environmental justice groups.
Job training programs authorized under FEJA are also underway, including the "Solar Training Pipeline Program," which trains solar installers who are from low-income and environmental justice communities, alumni of the Illinois foster care system, and returning citizens, with a job placement goal of 2,000 individuals by 2029. Training providers like Illinois Central College in Peoria, Opportunity Advancement Innovation in Chicago, and Elevate Energy in Chicago and Carbondale have already either started or graduated their first class of between 15 and 30 participants, and several graduates have already been hired or actively being considered for employment. Vivint Solar recently announced its intention to create over 100 jobs in Illinois, primarily in the residential market, and Sunrun over 80 positions. Ranger Power, developer of the utility-scale solar farm in southern Perry County, expects to create around 200 jobs in construction.
These numbers will only continue to increase as more solar and wind systems are awarded incentives under FEJA and break ground in 2019 and beyond. The benefits of FEJA are just getting started, bringing cleaner air, lower utility bills, economic development, job creation, tax base growth, and other benefits to communities all over the State. Read more here.
THREE ADVISORY REFERENDA (non-binding) THAT WILL BE ON THE COOK COUNTY BALLOT IN NOVEMBER
Click HERE
Municipalities that have opted OUT of BOTH the Cook County Minimum Wage Ordinance and the Cook County Paid Sick Leave Ordinance.
Click HERE
Click HERE
Municipalities that have opted OUT of BOTH the Cook County Minimum Wage Ordinance and the Cook County Paid Sick Leave Ordinance.
Click HERE
Ways to Celebrate the League’s 100th Birthday!
The League of Women Voters Turns 100 in 2020!
There are many ways that you can help!
There are many ways to help!Click HERE to read more about it!
The League of Women Voters Turns 100 in 2020!
There are many ways that you can help!
- Send out Monthly Articles
- Locate movies/plays about the Suffragettes
- Create a Commemorative Item (button/pin)
There are many ways to help!Click HERE to read more about it!
PALATINE COOL CITIES Sustainability Efforts
A report was just released on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions for our region by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) See report here.
We spend a lot of time looking to our government to drive down CO2 emissions through legislation. As important as this is it is also painfully slow and as the party in power flip flops so does our country’s focus on this most critical of problems. Notice that in our region CO2 has only decreased by 7% since 2010. This is not enough.
Our Group isn’t lessening our focus on elections and legislation but we are increasingly realizing the importance of local action all the way down to individual households. Please continue reading about how individual communities are taking matters into their own hands supported by comprehensive sustainability plan templates, and frameworks. Converting these plans to action requires residents' collectively driving the processes forward.
Click here to read about the sustainability efforts.
A report was just released on Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions for our region by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) See report here.
We spend a lot of time looking to our government to drive down CO2 emissions through legislation. As important as this is it is also painfully slow and as the party in power flip flops so does our country’s focus on this most critical of problems. Notice that in our region CO2 has only decreased by 7% since 2010. This is not enough.
Our Group isn’t lessening our focus on elections and legislation but we are increasingly realizing the importance of local action all the way down to individual households. Please continue reading about how individual communities are taking matters into their own hands supported by comprehensive sustainability plan templates, and frameworks. Converting these plans to action requires residents' collectively driving the processes forward.
Click here to read about the sustainability efforts.
TOWNSHIP AND TAXES DRINKS AND DISCUSSION
About 40 people attended the “Township and Taxes” Drinks and Discussion at Emmetts in Palatine on Tuesday, July 17. Shannon Sohl PhD, CPA and Norman Walzer Ph.D, both from Northern Illinois University Center for Government Studies, presented data regarding local government structure and the role of townships. Click HERE to read more.
About 40 people attended the “Township and Taxes” Drinks and Discussion at Emmetts in Palatine on Tuesday, July 17. Shannon Sohl PhD, CPA and Norman Walzer Ph.D, both from Northern Illinois University Center for Government Studies, presented data regarding local government structure and the role of townships. Click HERE to read more.
Book Review: The People vs Democracy by Yascha Mounk. Recommended Read by Laura Davis: I heard Yascha Mounk speak at the Chicago Council on Foreign Affairs. He is a lecturer on Government at Harvard University and a Senior Fellow in the Political Reform Program at New America. Mounk describes political turmoil across the world as a rise in populism. Populist insurgents undermine liberal institutions by ratcheting up tensions with perceived enemies at home and abroad, packing courts and electoral commissions with their cronies, and taking control of the media. In this way, populist leaders consolidate power.
Click HERE to read more.
Click HERE to read more.
Republicans Retain Twice as much Cash Despite Big Fundraising by Democrats in Top IL Congressional Races
Click Here.
Click Here.
Here Is How a Lack of Transparency Leads to Unfair Property Taxes. An In-Depth Discussion with the Reporters of "The Tax Divide". Click HERE to read the article.
Illinois Needs to Upgrade Voting Equipment Gov. Rauner Signs ICPR's Election Equipment Reporting Bill
Click HERE.
Click HERE.
NAMI (National Alliance of Mental Illness) Conference.
Early Bird registration ends July 15.
Click HERE for details.
Early Bird registration ends July 15.
Click HERE for details.
SWANCC Elist Mercury & Florescent Bulb Recycling
Why should mercury be recycled rather than put in the garbage or waterways?
Mercury poses health risks to humans (especially young children) and animals. Mercury exposure can occur by breathing vapors, by direct skin contact or by eating food or drinking water contaminated with mercury. Mercury-containing products should be replaced with safer alternatives, whenever possible, to cut down on potential health risks. Click HERE to read the article.
Download SWANCC’s CFL Brochure
Why should mercury be recycled rather than put in the garbage or waterways?
Mercury poses health risks to humans (especially young children) and animals. Mercury exposure can occur by breathing vapors, by direct skin contact or by eating food or drinking water contaminated with mercury. Mercury-containing products should be replaced with safer alternatives, whenever possible, to cut down on potential health risks. Click HERE to read the article.
Download SWANCC’s CFL Brochure
Self-Funding Candidates: Do they really relate to Voters? Illinois stands alone in nominating two mega-wealthy men to run for governor. Both incumbent Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic challenger J.B. Pritzker are known for their willingness to use their endless personal wealth to fund their campaigns. But do these men represent a typical Illinoisan? Click HERE
Issues Committee June 19, 2018 Redistricting Report Paula Lawson and Jane Ballengee
On June 18, 2018, the Supreme Court dismissed its two major gerrymandering cases, Wisconsin's Gill v. Whitford and Maryland's Benisek v. Lamone, on procedural, technical grounds -- with no conclusive ruling on the merits of either case, leaving the door open to rein in partisan gerrymandering in the future.
This Supreme Court decision means the fate of redistricting reform in Illinois remains firmly in the hands of Illinois citizens. The LWVIL working with CHANGE Illinois and its coalition partners will continue to work with their networks of voters and with like-minded public officials to call for redistricting reform in Illinois and to make gerrymandering a key election issue this November. Click HERE
On June 18, 2018, the Supreme Court dismissed its two major gerrymandering cases, Wisconsin's Gill v. Whitford and Maryland's Benisek v. Lamone, on procedural, technical grounds -- with no conclusive ruling on the merits of either case, leaving the door open to rein in partisan gerrymandering in the future.
This Supreme Court decision means the fate of redistricting reform in Illinois remains firmly in the hands of Illinois citizens. The LWVIL working with CHANGE Illinois and its coalition partners will continue to work with their networks of voters and with like-minded public officials to call for redistricting reform in Illinois and to make gerrymandering a key election issue this November. Click HERE
Louisiana Literacy Test – These tests were used by southern states up through the 1950s to prevent black people from voting! See if you can do it in 10 minutes. It may be a good thing to share with high school students. Click HERE.
Recommended Read by Laura Davis: The Great Lakes Water Wars by Peter Annin
I recently read The Great Lakes Water Wars on a recommendation from one of the doctoral students at the Shedd Aquarium. It is an amazing story about the history and political machinations regarding the Great Lakes, and the real risks to 18% of all fresh surface water on earth.
Click HERE to read more.
I recently read The Great Lakes Water Wars on a recommendation from one of the doctoral students at the Shedd Aquarium. It is an amazing story about the history and political machinations regarding the Great Lakes, and the real risks to 18% of all fresh surface water on earth.
Click HERE to read more.
Illinois Environmental Council Report - May, 2018
As we head into Memorial Day Weekend, the General Assembly will remain in Springfield for the final few days of the spring legislative session. Bills continue to move quickly out of each chamber, and we are happy to report that several more environmental priority bills are headed to the Governor’s desk this week. Read more about each of these bills HERE.
As we head into Memorial Day Weekend, the General Assembly will remain in Springfield for the final few days of the spring legislative session. Bills continue to move quickly out of each chamber, and we are happy to report that several more environmental priority bills are headed to the Governor’s desk this week. Read more about each of these bills HERE.
Your Voice Mattered in the Fight for Fair Maps
Although we didn't succeed in getting the Fair Maps Amendments onto the floor of the Senate and House for a vote, we have come far in the effort for fairer maps in Illinois.
Click HERE to read more about it.
Although we didn't succeed in getting the Fair Maps Amendments onto the floor of the Senate and House for a vote, we have come far in the effort for fairer maps in Illinois.
Click HERE to read more about it.
McHenry County Residents Should Be Allowed To Dissolve Their Townships (5/17/2018)
Click HERE to read the report.
Click HERE to read the report.
New Report compares Illinois Elections to National Best Practices
In recent years, the integrity and security of state election procedures has become a focal point for voters and advocacy groups alike. To ensure transparency, trust, and accountability in Illinois elections processes, the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform (ICPR) and the League of Women Voters of Illinois (LWVIL) have partnered to analyze best practices for election administration across the country, and assess how Illinois can ensure that state policies reflect these standards.
The result of our partnership is a set of recommendations tailored to the needs of Illinois’ unique network of election administration. These recommendations include targeted reforms to ensure Illinois has best practices in place and serves as a leader in conducting state and local elections.
Click HERE to read about it!
In recent years, the integrity and security of state election procedures has become a focal point for voters and advocacy groups alike. To ensure transparency, trust, and accountability in Illinois elections processes, the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform (ICPR) and the League of Women Voters of Illinois (LWVIL) have partnered to analyze best practices for election administration across the country, and assess how Illinois can ensure that state policies reflect these standards.
The result of our partnership is a set of recommendations tailored to the needs of Illinois’ unique network of election administration. These recommendations include targeted reforms to ensure Illinois has best practices in place and serves as a leader in conducting state and local elections.
Click HERE to read about it!
April 2018 Education Legislation
HB 5175: School CD - Teacher Salary:
Amends the School Code. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2019, in fixing the salaries of teachers, a school board shall pay those who serve on a full-time basis a rate not less than $40,000 per year.
HB 4208: Safe Schools-Healthy Learning:
In short: Establishes the Safe Schools and Healthy Learning Environments Program and grants under the program.
HB5481: Class Size Goals Requires districts to report data on class sizes to ISBE as well as sets targets for class sizes for K-12 classrooms.
HR 0027: House Resolution Opposing Pension Cost Shift
AND SCHOOLS ARE FINALLY GETTING THEIR MONEY!
Click HERE to read more!
HB 5175: School CD - Teacher Salary:
Amends the School Code. Provides that, beginning July 1, 2019, in fixing the salaries of teachers, a school board shall pay those who serve on a full-time basis a rate not less than $40,000 per year.
HB 4208: Safe Schools-Healthy Learning:
In short: Establishes the Safe Schools and Healthy Learning Environments Program and grants under the program.
HB5481: Class Size Goals Requires districts to report data on class sizes to ISBE as well as sets targets for class sizes for K-12 classrooms.
HR 0027: House Resolution Opposing Pension Cost Shift
AND SCHOOLS ARE FINALLY GETTING THEIR MONEY!
Click HERE to read more!
A Fine Mess
A Global Quest for a Simpler, Fairer, and More Efficient Tax System
by T.R. Reid
With the recent discussions in Congress in changing the US tax code, I decided to read A Fine Mess in search of what a simpler, fairer, and more efficient tax system might look like.
The author describes the current US tax code, how it started, and how it got the way was at the end of 2017. The author shares tax systems from around the world, including the time it takes for taxpayers to fill out and pay their taxes each year. Some countries send the tax bill on a post card that asks the taxpayer to confirm that it looks right, sign and return it. In some countries, taxpayers get upset if they have to spend over 15 minutes to fill out their tax return!
Why is the American tax system so complicated? The book describes the many special interests that are added into the tax code by Congress which contributes to the 73,000 pages of IRS regulations. While Congress reprimands the IRS for the tax code, the tax code reflects the special deductions, exemptions, and rules that Congress imposes on it. Lastly, the large tax filing companies, such as H&R Block and Turbo Tax, are big campaign donors to Congress and resist a simplification of the US tax system.
The book describes New Zealand as the fairest tax system in the world. The system is BBLR—broad base, low rates. All deductions and loop holes are removed, and everybody’s tax rates are cut. Additionally, 175 countries in the world use a VAT tax (value-added tax). Only the US and a handful of poor countries do not have a VAT. The VAT is a popular tax because it is easy to collect and hard to evade. Economists love the VAT because it taxes spending, not earning or saving. In New Zealand, GST (goods and services tax) is the broad tax that is applied to all purchased products or services, including commodities to create a product, services such as plumbers, architects, dentists, and prostitutes. There is a question of whether the prostitutes are offering a product or a service! Lastly, the median wage earner in New Zealand pays about 17.5% in income tax which covers an old-age pension, free health care for life, and free education through college graduation. New Zealand provides more government service than the US with half the tax rate.
In the US, the Treasury Department has said that every individual and corporate tax bill could be cut by 37% if all exemptions in the tax code were eliminated. The elimination of deductions includes charities and property taxes. The simplification of the tax system would be fairer and reduce the opportunities for people to cheat, in addition to saving loads of time to file. Additionally, a fairer tax system would be more effective and efficient in covering government spending needs for all Americans. I recommend A Fine Mess as a good read.
Submitted by Laura Davis Jan.2018
A Global Quest for a Simpler, Fairer, and More Efficient Tax System
by T.R. Reid
With the recent discussions in Congress in changing the US tax code, I decided to read A Fine Mess in search of what a simpler, fairer, and more efficient tax system might look like.
The author describes the current US tax code, how it started, and how it got the way was at the end of 2017. The author shares tax systems from around the world, including the time it takes for taxpayers to fill out and pay their taxes each year. Some countries send the tax bill on a post card that asks the taxpayer to confirm that it looks right, sign and return it. In some countries, taxpayers get upset if they have to spend over 15 minutes to fill out their tax return!
Why is the American tax system so complicated? The book describes the many special interests that are added into the tax code by Congress which contributes to the 73,000 pages of IRS regulations. While Congress reprimands the IRS for the tax code, the tax code reflects the special deductions, exemptions, and rules that Congress imposes on it. Lastly, the large tax filing companies, such as H&R Block and Turbo Tax, are big campaign donors to Congress and resist a simplification of the US tax system.
The book describes New Zealand as the fairest tax system in the world. The system is BBLR—broad base, low rates. All deductions and loop holes are removed, and everybody’s tax rates are cut. Additionally, 175 countries in the world use a VAT tax (value-added tax). Only the US and a handful of poor countries do not have a VAT. The VAT is a popular tax because it is easy to collect and hard to evade. Economists love the VAT because it taxes spending, not earning or saving. In New Zealand, GST (goods and services tax) is the broad tax that is applied to all purchased products or services, including commodities to create a product, services such as plumbers, architects, dentists, and prostitutes. There is a question of whether the prostitutes are offering a product or a service! Lastly, the median wage earner in New Zealand pays about 17.5% in income tax which covers an old-age pension, free health care for life, and free education through college graduation. New Zealand provides more government service than the US with half the tax rate.
In the US, the Treasury Department has said that every individual and corporate tax bill could be cut by 37% if all exemptions in the tax code were eliminated. The elimination of deductions includes charities and property taxes. The simplification of the tax system would be fairer and reduce the opportunities for people to cheat, in addition to saving loads of time to file. Additionally, a fairer tax system would be more effective and efficient in covering government spending needs for all Americans. I recommend A Fine Mess as a good read.
Submitted by Laura Davis Jan.2018
Shedd Aquarium Visit -- Marcy 6, 2018
Flier and payment information.
2018_03_lwv_shedd_aquarium_invitation.pdf
Flier and payment information.
2018_03_lwv_shedd_aquarium_invitation.pdf
LWVIL Issues Specialist for Air Quality and Energy
November 11, 2017
In state news, a pair of bills, Dynegy Capacity Pricing (SB2250/HB4141), have been introduced which are being opposed by our Clean Jobs Coalition partners. The bills, if passed, would subsidize Dynegy's eight downstate coal plants. These plants are in areas not covered by ComEd or Ameren, and the bills would significantly change the way these plants were paid to provide capacity.
In national news, the U.S. Senate confirmed William Wehrum, a lawyer for the petrochemical industry, to a key post at the EPA to oversee air pollution regulations affecting his former clients. Two struggling solar panel manufacturers (Suniva and SolarWorld) have convinced the International Trade Commission to use an obscure part of the trade law to allow the President to impose a 35% tariff on cheaper imported solar panels. Clean energy interests overwhelmingly opposed this measure saying it would severely cut back jobs and clean energy growth. Two children, one with asthma and one who survived Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy, are suing President Trump, Energy Secretary Perry, and EPA Administrator Pruitt in a Pennsylvania federal court alleging that the U.S. is using "junk science" to roll back policies that would mitigate climate change and protect their health. Robert Phelen was nominated for a science advisor position at the EPA, even though in 2012 he said "modern air is a little too clean for optimum health" and children need to breath in irritants to prime their immune systems. Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) remains the third leading cause of death in the U.S.
In international news, Robin Takmakian is representing LWVUS in Bonn at the COP23, the annual round of United Nations climate talks. Even though President Trump began US withdrawal from the Paris Accords in June, it can't take effect until 2020. Also, over 1,000 US governors, mayors, universities and others signed a statement pledging to continue working to meet goals of the Climate Accord.
November 11, 2017
In state news, a pair of bills, Dynegy Capacity Pricing (SB2250/HB4141), have been introduced which are being opposed by our Clean Jobs Coalition partners. The bills, if passed, would subsidize Dynegy's eight downstate coal plants. These plants are in areas not covered by ComEd or Ameren, and the bills would significantly change the way these plants were paid to provide capacity.
In national news, the U.S. Senate confirmed William Wehrum, a lawyer for the petrochemical industry, to a key post at the EPA to oversee air pollution regulations affecting his former clients. Two struggling solar panel manufacturers (Suniva and SolarWorld) have convinced the International Trade Commission to use an obscure part of the trade law to allow the President to impose a 35% tariff on cheaper imported solar panels. Clean energy interests overwhelmingly opposed this measure saying it would severely cut back jobs and clean energy growth. Two children, one with asthma and one who survived Hurricane Irene and Superstorm Sandy, are suing President Trump, Energy Secretary Perry, and EPA Administrator Pruitt in a Pennsylvania federal court alleging that the U.S. is using "junk science" to roll back policies that would mitigate climate change and protect their health. Robert Phelen was nominated for a science advisor position at the EPA, even though in 2012 he said "modern air is a little too clean for optimum health" and children need to breath in irritants to prime their immune systems. Chronic pulmonary obstructive disease (COPD) remains the third leading cause of death in the U.S.
In international news, Robin Takmakian is representing LWVUS in Bonn at the COP23, the annual round of United Nations climate talks. Even though President Trump began US withdrawal from the Paris Accords in June, it can't take effect until 2020. Also, over 1,000 US governors, mayors, universities and others signed a statement pledging to continue working to meet goals of the Climate Accord.
LWV November UMRR (Upper Mississippi River Region) Action Update for Member Leagues
The UMRR continues to work toward collaboration and water quality education. This month the UMRR received a $1,000 grant from the Environmental Resource Council to advance connections and collaborations with other environmental organizations. UMRR members in Iowa have been involved with conducting the watershed game, which teaches how land uses impact waterways. Think of it like a game of RISK, but with the threat of rain rather than invading armies. Other UMRR members in Wisconsin are working to get a potential grant of $1,500 to train La Crosse public school teachers to use a sand tank model of groundwater to teach about hydrogeology. The sand tank simulates how wells and other access points to groundwater can contaminate the aquifer (see the photo). Over the next couple months, members will research if all four UMRR states are following federal Safe Drinking Water rules, as well as gain a greater understanding of the water quality issues specific to karst land formations. Some members will collaborate with the Land Stewardship Project in southeast Minnesota to present land sustainability workshops. The next UMRR board meeting will be Monday Dec. 4th in Dubuque, IA. The public educational session begins at 1 pm, so please join us if you are in the area. The meeting will be at the Dubuque Carnegie-Stout Public Library (360 W. 11th Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001)
The UMRR continues to work toward collaboration and water quality education. This month the UMRR received a $1,000 grant from the Environmental Resource Council to advance connections and collaborations with other environmental organizations. UMRR members in Iowa have been involved with conducting the watershed game, which teaches how land uses impact waterways. Think of it like a game of RISK, but with the threat of rain rather than invading armies. Other UMRR members in Wisconsin are working to get a potential grant of $1,500 to train La Crosse public school teachers to use a sand tank model of groundwater to teach about hydrogeology. The sand tank simulates how wells and other access points to groundwater can contaminate the aquifer (see the photo). Over the next couple months, members will research if all four UMRR states are following federal Safe Drinking Water rules, as well as gain a greater understanding of the water quality issues specific to karst land formations. Some members will collaborate with the Land Stewardship Project in southeast Minnesota to present land sustainability workshops. The next UMRR board meeting will be Monday Dec. 4th in Dubuque, IA. The public educational session begins at 1 pm, so please join us if you are in the area. The meeting will be at the Dubuque Carnegie-Stout Public Library (360 W. 11th Street, Dubuque, Iowa 52001)
Health Care – A Right or Responsibility?
Hill Hammock, Chairman of the Cook County Health and Hospital Board will be speaking at the November 30 Chicago in Focus. Sponsored by LWV Chicago, this monthly discussion series meets at the Union League Club in Chicago and is free to the public. 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Click here to view the flier.
Hill Hammock, Chairman of the Cook County Health and Hospital Board will be speaking at the November 30 Chicago in Focus. Sponsored by LWV Chicago, this monthly discussion series meets at the Union League Club in Chicago and is free to the public. 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Click here to view the flier.
Meeting on Voter Integrity sponsored by the IL Campaign for Political Reform.
This program dealt with elections in Lake County.
Highest challenge is to make sure all Votes are counted. There were concerns in the audience that all votes are not being counted. Hon. Wycoff assured all there that indeed all votes are counted. There were many question concerning whether early voting and Mail in ballots are counted. She stated that they are all counted but often mail in ballots are tabulated after the polls close. In the last election 96% of mail in ballots were counted. The reason not 100% counted is that some were mailed in late or signatures not valid.
Biggest issue discussed was hacking by Russians in the last election. Lake County is working to make sure that Voting is secure. They also stated that their new equipment has many levels of security.
Click here to continue reading.
This program dealt with elections in Lake County.
Highest challenge is to make sure all Votes are counted. There were concerns in the audience that all votes are not being counted. Hon. Wycoff assured all there that indeed all votes are counted. There were many question concerning whether early voting and Mail in ballots are counted. She stated that they are all counted but often mail in ballots are tabulated after the polls close. In the last election 96% of mail in ballots were counted. The reason not 100% counted is that some were mailed in late or signatures not valid.
Biggest issue discussed was hacking by Russians in the last election. Lake County is working to make sure that Voting is secure. They also stated that their new equipment has many levels of security.
Click here to continue reading.
The MWRD of Greater Chicago's Nutrient Recovery Facility earns Top Honor from Water Environment Federation.
The MWRD of Greater Chicago's Nutrient Recovery Facility at Stickney Water Reclamation Plant improves local waterways by significantly reducing waterway phosphorus levels through recovery and reuse of vital nutrients.
CHICAGO, IL, Oct. 2, 2017 /CNW/ - The world's largest nutrient recovery facility that improves water quality of the Chicago Area Waterway System while reducing downstream phosphorus discharges into the Gulf of Mexico has won a coveted Project Excellence Award from the Water Environment Federation (WEF). The honor will be presented to the project's owner, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD); Black & Veatch, the facility's design-builder; and technology provider, Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies.
Click here to continue reading.
The MWRD of Greater Chicago's Nutrient Recovery Facility at Stickney Water Reclamation Plant improves local waterways by significantly reducing waterway phosphorus levels through recovery and reuse of vital nutrients.
CHICAGO, IL, Oct. 2, 2017 /CNW/ - The world's largest nutrient recovery facility that improves water quality of the Chicago Area Waterway System while reducing downstream phosphorus discharges into the Gulf of Mexico has won a coveted Project Excellence Award from the Water Environment Federation (WEF). The honor will be presented to the project's owner, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD); Black & Veatch, the facility's design-builder; and technology provider, Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies.
Click here to continue reading.
STROGER HOSPITAL TOUR
Along with Jerry Butler’s Chief of Staff Vanessa Dennis, 24 members from the LWVs of Evanston, Homewood/Flossmoor, Oak Park/River Forest, Chicago, WNK, and the La Grange Area were treated to an informative, nearly three-hour tour of Stroger Hospital. The tour began with a Power Point presentation clarifying the HHS mission; impact of Medicaid expansion on revenue and services; continuing health and housing needs of many HHS patients; and services to be offered in the 22,000 square foot, 9-story clinic/administration building currently under construction.
Click 2017_09_16_stroger_hospital.pdf to continue reading.
Along with Jerry Butler’s Chief of Staff Vanessa Dennis, 24 members from the LWVs of Evanston, Homewood/Flossmoor, Oak Park/River Forest, Chicago, WNK, and the La Grange Area were treated to an informative, nearly three-hour tour of Stroger Hospital. The tour began with a Power Point presentation clarifying the HHS mission; impact of Medicaid expansion on revenue and services; continuing health and housing needs of many HHS patients; and services to be offered in the 22,000 square foot, 9-story clinic/administration building currently under construction.
Click 2017_09_16_stroger_hospital.pdf to continue reading.
MASS INCARCERATION: WHAT ROLE SHOULD THE PROSECUTOR PLAY?
Beginning comments addressed the media and the rise of crime, during the 1980’s and 90’s, which led to a major increase in incarceration. The US is now in a national conversation of the reasons for mass incarceration and how to address them. The book by John Pfaff, Locked In, which discusses the role of prosecutors in driving up incarceration, was brought up several times by Robert Wildeboer. States Attorney Foxx responded that it is important for attorneys to do the right things, and not focus on convictions, and that there are hundreds of discretionary points that are taken into consideration.
Click 2017_09_12_massincarceration.pdf to continue reading.
Beginning comments addressed the media and the rise of crime, during the 1980’s and 90’s, which led to a major increase in incarceration. The US is now in a national conversation of the reasons for mass incarceration and how to address them. The book by John Pfaff, Locked In, which discusses the role of prosecutors in driving up incarceration, was brought up several times by Robert Wildeboer. States Attorney Foxx responded that it is important for attorneys to do the right things, and not focus on convictions, and that there are hundreds of discretionary points that are taken into consideration.
Click 2017_09_12_massincarceration.pdf to continue reading.
From the LWV of Illinois: Thank you for your hard work!
Many hard fought battles and tough compromises have led to historic legislation in Illinois during one of the longest legislative sessions in Illinois history. After a full year budget finally passed, many other important bills were signed into law just in the last week.
This special E-News is to thank you as members, but we hope you will take this information to share within your community and on social media to show what our organization can accomplish, in cooperation with a diverse group of coalition partners. Here's our list of wins for this legislative session.
Click 2017_09_01_legislative_battles.pdf to continue reading.
Many hard fought battles and tough compromises have led to historic legislation in Illinois during one of the longest legislative sessions in Illinois history. After a full year budget finally passed, many other important bills were signed into law just in the last week.
This special E-News is to thank you as members, but we hope you will take this information to share within your community and on social media to show what our organization can accomplish, in cooperation with a diverse group of coalition partners. Here's our list of wins for this legislative session.
Click 2017_09_01_legislative_battles.pdf to continue reading.
How Can Civility be Restored in Politics?
The Illinois Campaign for Political Reform offered a program on Wednesday, August 16, 2017, on restoring civility in politics. A panel of 3 speakers consisting of Cassandra Dahnke, Co-Founder of the Institute for Civility in Government, Hon. Jim Leach, Visiting Professor at the University of Iowa and former member of the US House of Representatives, and Matthew Weil, Associate Director of the Democracy Project at the Bipartisan Policy Center, spoke about the loss of civility in politics.
Mr. Weil discussed the 62 reforms that resulted from the Democracy Project research. Click here to read more: icpr-civildiscours8.16.17.pdf
The Illinois Campaign for Political Reform offered a program on Wednesday, August 16, 2017, on restoring civility in politics. A panel of 3 speakers consisting of Cassandra Dahnke, Co-Founder of the Institute for Civility in Government, Hon. Jim Leach, Visiting Professor at the University of Iowa and former member of the US House of Representatives, and Matthew Weil, Associate Director of the Democracy Project at the Bipartisan Policy Center, spoke about the loss of civility in politics.
Mr. Weil discussed the 62 reforms that resulted from the Democracy Project research. Click here to read more: icpr-civildiscours8.16.17.pdf