Illinois Quick Hits: CPS game officials, unpaid for weeks, decline work
(The Center Square) – Several Chicago high school football games may not be played this weekend because Chicago Public Schools have not paid the officials for weeks.
State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, said in a letter to CPS leaders that one Chicago Public League official reported that he worked 50 games this season and had only been paid for 28.
Meanwhile, officials are declining assignments until they are paid for work already completed.
Buckner said some have characterized the situation as a strike, but if officials remain unpaid for substantial work already completed, it is a work stoppage caused by nonpayment.
Buckner said schools have already cancelled some games and others are preparing to cancel.
MICHIGAN AVENUE TO GET DEDICATED BUS LANE
State and local officials have announced a new dedicated bus lane on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago.
Work on the northbound lane from Roosevelt Road to Wacker Drive is expected to be completed in the next seven to ten days.
A press release from Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office said Michigan Avenue is under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Transportation, and the Chicago Department of Transportation worked closely with IDOT to develop the project and secure approval.
Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi said the addition promises to be the first of many under the new Northern Illinois Transit Authority.
IDFPR TO OFFER LICENSING EXAMS IN FIVE LANGUAGES
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation announced, starting on Thursday, select licensing examinations for barber, cosmetology, esthetics and nail technology professions will be offered in five languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese.
Information about exam fees and licensing requirements for these professions is available online.
FREEDOM CAUCUS URGES PRESIDENT TO APPOINT CENSUS DIRECTOR
The Illinois Freedom Caucus is calling on President Donald Trump to appoint a director to the U.S. Census Bureau.
State Rep. Chris Miller, R-Hindsboro, filed House Resolution 1033, urging the president to nominate a qualified director and the U.S. Senate to confirm the appointment in order to increase oversight and implement reforms before the 2030 Census.
“The Census determines legislative redistricting. It determines funding levels for states and municipalities. It is used in determining grant allocations and has a direct bearing on the balance of power in the country,” the Illinois Freedom Caucus said in a statement.
FALL ARCHERY DEER AND TURKEY HUNTING OPENS
Thursday is the first day of fall archery deer and turkey hunting season across Illinois. More information about season dates and regulations can be found on the Hunt Illinois website.
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