Illinois Insights: An Update from Cozen O’Connor (4/12)

ILLINOIS

| AROUND THE STATE

Illinois Senate advances changes to state’s biometric privacy law after business groups split

“On Thursday, a bipartisan majority in the Illinois Senate did just that, approving the first major change to Illinois’ Biometric Information Privacy Act since it was originally passed in 2008,” by Capitol News Illinois.

Illinois lawmakers call for ban on intoxicating hemp products, but retailers call for regulations

“Illinois lawmakers joined the licensed cannabis industry Thursday in calling for a ban on intoxicating hemp products such as Delta-8-THC, a move retailers of such substances said would put them out of business,” by the Chicago Tribune.

Bears make big additions to legal team in continued push for new lakefront stadium

“The Chicago Bears have tapped Andrea Zopp, an established leader in the world of Chicago business and politics, to serve as an adviser in the team’s continued push for a new lakefront stadium. Zopp was not the only strategic hire made this week, as the team also announced Krista Whitaker as the club’s new executive vice president of legal and business affairs and chief legal officer,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.

Giannoulias calls for disclosure of lobbyist contracts

“For decades, lobbyists in the Illinois Statehouse have been required to report how much they spend wining, dining and entertaining lawmakers. Currently, though, there is no law requiring lobbyists to disclose how much they are paid by corporations, industry groups or other special interest organizations,” by Capitol News Illinois.

CHICAGO

Mayor Johnson revises $1.25 billion housing, economic development bond proposal 

On Thursday, the City Council Finance Committee held its second subject matter hearing on Mayor Johnson’s $1.25 billion proposed bond issuance to bolster existing housing, cultural, and economic development programs citywide.

A revised version (SO2024-0007838) of the plan unveiled Thursday incorporates changes to increase transparency, fiscal responsibility, and council authority over project selection.

The ordinance also requires the Department of Planning and Development and the Department of Housing to provide quarterly updates on “any expenditure, allocation, or award of” bond proceeds toward projects.

| MORE FROM CITY HALL

Mayor reverses course, will call for $70 million in funding for migrant care, key City Council member says

“This week Johnson began meeting with alderpersons behind closed doors, briefing them on a proposal to approve an extra $70 million in funding for migrant services, as part of a package with the state and county, according to those familiar with the meetings,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.

Alderpeople ask new DCASE commissioner about Chicago River swim event, communication with ward offices and continuing Harkey’s legacy ahead of committee vote

“The City Council Committee on Special Events, Cultural Affairs and Recreation voted to approve Mayor Brandon Johnson’s pick to lead the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) Wednesday, sending final confirmation to the City Council next week,” by The Daily Line.

‘Security footprint’ plan for Democratic Convention kicked to City Council for Wednesday vote

“Protesters, residents and other DNC observers would be prohibited from bringing laptops, large bags, scooters and other items into certain areas closest to convention attendees under the ordinance, which the City Council’s Public Safety Committee advanced for a vote by the full Council,” by the Chicago Sun-Times.

FEDERAL

Cozen Currents: What Does It Mean to be a Republican or a Democrat Today?

Senator Sherrod Brown’s (D-OH) battle to stay in the Senate representing the red state of Ohio and former Governor Larry Hogan’s (R-MD) fight to represent his blue state of Maryland are different sides of the same coin: can personal popularity overcome partisanship in a presidential year?

As the two major parties have evolved ideologically, the concept of must pass legislation has become more challenging.

With a significant share of swing voters and an open Senate race, Arizona is one of the most important states to watch in the November elections.

Read the full Cozen Currents here.

Biden Walks the Political Tightrope: The Economy & Immigration, Beltway Briefing

The intricate interplay between economic perceptions and immigration places President Biden in a delicate balancing act with swing state voters. Given the outcomes of the past two elections hinged on this pivotal electorate, the prevailing political polarization and prominence of these issues could be enough to tip the scales. Featuring Public Strategies’ Howard Schweitzer, Mark Alderman, and the Hon. Rodney Davis.

Listen to the Beltway Briefing here.

If you have any questions regarding this update or if you’re interested in ways to engage on these issues, please contact one of our team members here.

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