Category: Illinois
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Illinois’ ‘Clean Slate’ Law Raises Familiar Questions About Accountability, Transparency, and Public Safety
Illinois has passed the Clean Slate bill, which allows automatic sealing of certain nonviolent criminal records, aiming to enhance employment and housing access. Critics question the absence of judicial review, arguing it could undermine public trust and safety, as nonviolent offenses may still pose risks. The long-term effects of this reform remain uncertain.
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Illinois DHS Data Exposure Raises Questions About Government Data Practices
The Illinois Department of Human Services disclosed a data exposure affecting over 670,000 residents due to misconfigured privacy settings on public planning maps. The incident, discovered in September 2025, has raised concerns about data security practices and the use of third-party tools. Steps for affected individuals include monitoring credit and being cautious of fraud.
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Illinois PPP Loan Fraud Scandal Exposes Deeper Problems of Oversight and Public Trust
An investigation by the Chicago Tribune reveals widespread fraud involving government employees in Illinois who improperly obtained Paycheck Protection Program loans intended for small businesses during COVID-19. The findings highlight systemic failures in oversight and accountability, prompting concerns about public trust and the future of emergency spending policies.
Wisconsin Bay News 