A series of gun control measures advanced in the Illinois Statehouse this week — requiring state licenses for gun dealers, banning "bump stocks," and raising the purchase age for so-called assault weapons, among other bills.
In Washington, an Illinois case was argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. Janus v. AFSCME challenges "fair share" fees for workers who are in collective bargaining units but don't want to join a union, and could have dire financial implications for public employee labor unions across the country.
Meanwhile, House Speaker Michael Madigan released a report with information on harassment, discrimination and retaliation cases handled by his government office. None of the other legislative caucuses — House Republicans, Senate Republicans, or Senate Democrats — followed suit. It still hasn't satisfied all his critics, but Madigan says he isn't going anywhere.
Brian Mackey hosts with regular panelist Charlie Wheeler and guest Monique Garcia of the Chicago Tribune.
The State Week panel wants to hear your questions about Illinois.
If there's anything you've ever wondered about Illinois government and politics — whether a current event or something historical — we want to answer your question on air.
We'd also like you to ask your question on air. There are two ways to get in touch:
- Leave a voicemail at (217) 206-6412.
- Record a voice memo on your smart phone and email it to brian.mackey@nprillinois.org. (Here's a helpful guide from NPR. Be sure to begin by saying who you are and where you're from, along the lines of: "Hi, I'm Brian Mackey from Springfield, and I've always wondered ...")
We hope to hear from you soon.
