Illinois news in brief: Cook County evaluates storm, flood damage; Giannoulias pushes for state regulation of auto insurance; State seeks seasonal snow plow drivers

By Jim Talamonti | The Center Square
The Center Square

Cook County evaluates storm, flood damage

The Cook County Department of Emergency Management and Regional Security is reviewing damage from the severe storms and flash flooding that occurred this week. EMRS is partnering with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency to compile additional information, which will be used to determine if additional assistance may be available for residents of Cook and surrounding counties. EMRS asks affected residents to submit an initial damage assessment by Friday, Aug. 22, 2025 at 5 p.m.

Giannoulias pushes for state regulation of auto insurance

As he ramps up his campaign to promote state regulation of auto insurance rates, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias has scheduled a virtual town hall meeting on the issue Wednesday evening. Three Chicago Democrats in the General Assembly are scheduled to participate in the event. Opponents say Giannoulias’ plan to regulate rates would raise premiums for drivers all over the state.

State seeks seasonal snow plow drivers

The Illinois Department of Transportation is taking applications for seasonal positions to help with snow-and-ice removal and other maintenance duties as part of the annual Snowbird program. The starting salary for full-time temporary is $6,044 per month. Hourlies are paid $27.79 an hour. Applicants with a Class A or B commercial driver’s license with appropriate endorsements can apply at https://illinois.jobs2web.com until Friday, Aug. 22.

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