Clear Trends Emerge from DeWitte Bears Survey
Last week, I posted a short, three-question survey to gather information from constituents regarding the Bears’ plan to move either to Arlington Heights or to Northwest Indiana. As of this writing, 1,189 responses have been received.
If you would still like to take the survey, you can click here to access the questions.
The questions and current results are as follows:
- Do you support efforts to keep the Chicago Bears from moving to Indiana? (82% YES)
- Do you support using state funds to build publicly owned infrastructure (improved roads, access, etc.) for a multi-use stadium? (77% YES)
- If the state invests in a multi-use stadium in Illinois, should it receive an ownership (equity) stake in return? (68% YES)
Thank you to everyone who participated in the survey. While responses are still trickling in, I see a clear preference for keeping the Bears in Illinois and providing the necessary road and access infrastructure (but not funding for the cost of construction) of a stadium.
New Legislation Requires DCFS to Account for Missing Foster Youth
Senate Republicans are seeking answers after the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) released data showing 193 foster children were reported missing while under state care in 2025 (as of October 9).
In an effort to hold DCFS accountable and to protect those in youth care, Senate Republicans have introduced Senate Bill 2869, legislation aimed at requiring DCFS to publicly account for every foster child who goes missing while under state supervision.
The state has a responsibility to protect vulnerable children and maintain accurate records, especially when children go missing from the foster care system.
Under SB 2869, DCFS would be required to track and report missing foster youth in a consistent and transparent manner, allowing lawmakers and the public to better understand the scope of the problem and ensure children in care are not falling through the cracks.
The bill awaits committee assignment.
SNAP Reform Legislation Proposed to Protect Taxpayers, Promote Health, and Restore Program Integrity
Senate Republicans have also introduced legislation aimed at restoring the original purpose of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Illinois by ensuring taxpayer-funded benefits support nutrition and public health rather than junk food.
Senate Bill 2908 would require the Illinois Department of Human Services to seek federal approval to prohibit SNAP benefits from being used to purchase candy, sugary soft drinks, energy drinks, and other highly processed products that contribute to obesity, diabetes, and long-term health costs.
According to national data, nearly one-quarter of SNAP spending goes toward sugary drinks, candy, and dessert products — items with little to no nutritional value.
Senate Bill 2908 keeps SNAP focused on real food and essentials by preserving access to staple foods, fresh groceries, and medically necessary nutrition products, while ensuring recipients and retailers receive clear notice and guidance before any changes are implemented.
The proposal follows existing federal law and would only allow Illinois to request a waiver, meaning no changes would take effect without approval from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Senate Bill 2908 is currently in the Senate Assignments Committee.
IDHS Shares Resources as SNAP Work Requirement Rules Change in 2026
The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) is sharing updated information and resources for SNAP recipients as new federal policy changes take effect in 2026.
Under the updated federal rules, the definition of Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) has expanded. Previously, it applied to adults ages 18–54 with no disabilities and no children under 18 living at home. It now includes individuals ages 55–64 with no disabilities, as well as adults with children in the home when the youngest child is age 14 or older. As a result, more SNAP recipients may be subject to work requirements moving forward.
Beginning February 1, 2026, ABAWDs who are not meeting work requirements and do not qualify for an exemption may receive SNAP benefits for only three months within a three-year period before losing eligibility. In Illinois, the current three-year period ends December 31, 2026, meaning some individuals could begin losing benefits as early as May 1, 2026.
To help individuals better understand the changes and determine whether they may be impacted, SNAP customers can use the ABE SNAP Work Requirements screener to check their status, confirm compliance, or see whether they may be eligible for an exemption.
IDHS also highlighted outreach materials created by the Greater Chicago Food Depository, including a toolkit with flyers, social media resources, and presentation materials designed to help share information ahead of the February deadline.
IDHS will also continue providing updates through snapfederalimpact.illinois.gov.
Dept. of Aging is Seeking Senior Illinoisans for Hall of Fame
The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Senior Illinoisans Hall of Fame, a program that recognizes Illinois residents aged 65 and older for outstanding lifetime achievements and contributions.
Each year, four older adults are selected for induction, with honorees representing accomplishments in areas such as arts, sports and entertainment, community service, education, and the workforce. Nominations are open to the public, meaning anyone can submit a candidate for consideration.
To qualify, nominees must be at least 65 years old at the time they are nominated and must either currently live in Illinois or have spent most of their life in the state. The Department also accepts posthumous nominations, as long as the individual was 65 or older and an Illinois resident at the time of their death.
To be considered for the 2026 class, nominations must be submitted by June 2, 2026. For more information or to submit a nomination, please click here.