In this unprecedented time, I believe the General Assembly has fallen far short of the public's expectations of how we respond to the issues facing our constituents...

"I'm often asked by the members of the public whether their voice matters. The answer every day, and especially today, is that it does...

With continued controversy and questions regarding many aspects of Governor Pritzker’s re-opening plan, along with the need for oversight from the co-equal legislative branch, State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) has continued his push for public hearings on the proposal...

Illinois lawmakers need to return to Springfield immediately to review the governor’s controversial re-opening plan, along with passing a state budget before it’s too late, according to State Senator Jason Barickman...

Add your name to my petition calling for public hearings and legislative input on the Governor's re-opening plan.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) today released new instructions for 1099 workers who have lost work due to COVID-19. Workers who believe they may be eligible for new federal benefits under the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) program, must first apply for regular unemployment insurance before applying for benefits under PUA when a new application portal opens on May 11, 2020 via the IDES website...

Noting the importance of cooperation between the co-equal executive and legislative branches of government, along with the potential impact of any plan to re-open Illinois, State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington) is calling for public hearings on Governor JB Pritzker’s “Restore Illinois” plan...

In the future, Governors could be required to receive legislative input before extending emergency declarations beyond 30 days, under legislation co-sponsored by State Senator Jason Barickman (R-Bloomington)...

Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s administration needs to act as quickly as possible to get unemployment benefits to self-employed “gig” workers, according to State Senator Jason Barickman...

Earlier this week, the Illinois State Police issued new emergency rules to help firearm owners with expired Firearm Owner Identification (FOID) cards...

Tips on filing for unemployment benefits online.

Small businesses looking to keep workers on the payroll have a new option in the Paycheck Protection Program. Starting today...

Overview of state programs for struggling small businesses.

"I applaud the federal government's move to delay the deadline to file taxes until July 15th, which provides some much-needed flexibility to people dealing with an unprecedented situation. Illinois needs to follow suit...

Governor Pritzker has issued a stay-at-home order starting at 5 PM Saturday, March 21, until Tuesday, April 7. We want to make sure you understand what this means for you and dispel some rumors you may have heard...

In another effort to provide timely and accurate information to the public, Coronavirus.illinois.gov has been launched to centralize the breaking updates from state government, prevention and preparation tips, frequently asked questions and resources from public health experts...

In light of ongoing health concerns surrounding the coronavirus/COVID-19 health crisis, a number of Illinois’ utility companies have announced measures being taken to help alleviate unnecessary stress and burdens for Illinois residents...

For individuals, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will postpone the April 15 federal tax-payment deadline for another 90 days. The IRS will also waive interest and penalties. This delay is available to people who owe $1 million or less...

On March 13, Governor Pritzker ordered that all K-12 schools (both public and private) close from March 17 through at least March 30. The order also includes early childhood programs located in public and private schools. Internships, experiential learning opportunities, and behind-the-wheel driver’s education are included as well...

According to the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, the federal emergency declaration has added flexibility to the Medicaid system that will help cover costs involved with testing for and treating patients for COVID-19...

The United States Census Bureau is currently monitoring the COVID-19 situation and will follow guidance set out by federal, state, and local health authorities to prevent the spread of the disease. The bureau is pushing for more electronic and mail responses without the need for enumerators to follow up in person...

All restaurants and bars are closed through March 30, but you can still support these small businesses by utilizing drive-thru, delivery and curbside pickup where offered. Also, consider buying gift cards online to use later. This small step can help these local businesses get through this difficult time...

Update on unemployment changes due to Covid-19/Coronavirus

On March 9, Illinois’ Governor issued a disaster proclamation in response to growing concerns surrounding the rapidly changing COVID-19 health issue...

With the census invitations beginning to hit mailboxes, you may be wondering what this snapshot of our nation is used for and how it can help our communities. In addition to determining your representation in Congress, census data is also used to direct federal resources to communities throughout America...