Illinois Quick Hits: Equity and Inclusion Commission launches mentorship program
(The Center Square) – The Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion has announced the launch of its new Mentor Protégé Program designed to provide certified vendors with structured coaching, mentorship and growth opportunities.
This spring, following The Center Square’s investigation, state lawmakers questioned equity commissioners about their oversight of a sizable decline in the number of state-certified businesses owned by racial minorities, women and people with disabilities.
Under the new state budget that took effect on Wednesday, the commissioners received pay increases of roughly $5,000 apiece, raising their salaries to about $153,000 per year.
Jared Strong contributed to this story
NASHVILLE H.S. COACH CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT AND ABUSE
A public high school baseball coach has been charged with criminal sexual assault, aggravated sexual abuse and four misdemeanor counts related to obstructing justice.
Chad Malawy, 54, of Nashville, Illinois has been placed on administrative leave from Nashville Community High School.
The charges stem from an investigation by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s office and the Nashville Police Department, with forensic help from Illinois State Police.
NEW FEDERAL SWIPE FEE RULES TAKE EFFECT
After new federal rules took effect this week to prevent Illinois and other states from banning fees on the tax and tip portions of credit and debit card payments, the Merchants Payment Coalition said bank and credit union fees could soar for consumers and businesses.
Doug Kantor of the MPC executive committee said in a statement that the rules set a dangerous precedent that endorses unfair price collusion.
The Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act was scheduled to take effect on Wednesday, but lawmakers delayed it to July 1, 2027.
IDOT WARNS OF POSSIBLE PAVEMENT FAILURES
The Illinois Department of Transportation is advising the public to look out for pavement failures due to high temperatures and humidity across the state.
IDOT said pavement buckling and blowouts occur with little warning. The agency urged drivers to stay alert for crews making emergency repairs.
Pavement failures can be reported by calling 800-452-4368 or by reaching out to law enforcement via 911.
Mostly Clear
Latest News Stories
Illinois quick hits: Ex-Carlyle Police Chief faces federal embezzlement charges;
Lawmaker proposes property tax credits as housing debate continues
Illinois municipalities push for local fuel tax as gas prices rise
Illinois lawmaker supports EPA rollback; AG opposes
Illinois Quick Hits: Report shows Illinois with highest U.S. tax rates
Committee Approves $740,000 Compressor to Boost RNG Plant Uptime
Meeting Summary and Briefs: Lincoln-Way District 210 Board of Education for February 19, 2026
County Approves $1.9 Million for Wilmington-Peotone Road Engineering
County Board Authorizes Audit of Homer Glen Policing Contract; Officials Seek ‘True Cost’ of Services
Soltage Drops Battery Storage Plans, Secures Extensions for Two Crete Solar Projects
Scrap Metal Drop-Off Near Mokena Approved by Single Vote
Landscape Business Approved on Cedar Road Despite ‘Dangerous Curve’ Concerns
Reported debt deal, credit downgrades may add to Chicago budget woes
