Legal News & Updates

We monitor legal developments to provide timely, insightful guidance, keeping our clients informed of the latest changes in laws, regulations, and industry trends. Our team stays engaged in the evolution of the law, enabling us to proactively address emerging issues and offer strategic counsel for both current and future challenges.

Latest Updates & News

Illinois Appellate Court Upholds TIF Despite Preexisting Development

In a significant decision for local governments and taxing bodies, the Illinois Appellate Court affirmed the Village of Winfield’s creation of a new TIF, even though substantial redevelopment by Central DuPage Hospital had already begun prior to its formal enactment.

New Proposed FOIA Legislation Seeks Practical Relief for Public Bodies

The Illinois General Assembly is back in session. We worked with partner firms to introduce FOIA legislation sponsored by Representative Daniel Didech to address public sector client concerns while preserving FOIA’s purpose. The bills have not yet been voted on and may be amended. A summary follows.

2026 Refresher on Educational Support Personnel RIF Procedures and Teacher Non-Renewal/RIF Deadlines

As we head into the second half of the 2025-26 school year, school districts must begin to make important decisions about their staffing needs for the 2026-2027 school year.

Recent Circuit Court Case Demonstrates Risk of Using Transportation Funds for Non-Transportation-Related Expenditures

A Cook County Circuit Court ruled that the County violated the 2016 transportation tax “lockbox” amendment by improperly spending over $243 million in transportation tax revenue on non-transportation purposes.

“Moral Conscience” Isn’t Enough for Religious Accommodation

The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision clarifying the requirements of school employers related to the vaccinate or test requirements under Governor Pritzker’s executive orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Reminder: Public Bodies May Not Hold a Public Meeting on March 17, 2026

March 17, 2026 is the date of the general primary election. If your regular Board meeting is scheduled for March 17, it will need to be rescheduled.

Illinois Appellate Court Upholds TIF Despite Preexisting Development

In a significant decision for local governments and taxing bodies, the Illinois Appellate Court affirmed the Village of Winfield’s creation of a new TIF, even though substantial redevelopment by Central DuPage Hospital had already begun prior to its formal enactment.

New Proposed FOIA Legislation Seeks Practical Relief for Public Bodies

The Illinois General Assembly is back in session. We worked with partner firms to introduce FOIA legislation sponsored by Representative Daniel Didech to address public sector client concerns while preserving FOIA’s purpose. The bills have not yet been voted on and may be amended. A summary follows.

2026 Refresher on Educational Support Personnel RIF Procedures and Teacher Non-Renewal/RIF Deadlines

As we head into the second half of the 2025-26 school year, school districts must begin to make important decisions about their staffing needs for the 2026-2027 school year.

Regulating Intelligence: New A.I. Laws and their Impact on Higher Education

The new year brings new compliance obligations for Illinois community colleges concerning the use of artificial intelligence (A.I.). Two new laws, both effective on January 1, 2026, place parameters on the evolving world of A.I.

ISBE RTO Guidance: Key Changes and Clarifications

In November 2025, ISBE released revised nonbinding Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions regarding the use of isolated time out, time out, and physical restraint (collectively referred to as “RTO”) in Illinois schools.

2026 Legislative Updates for Illinois Employers to Know

As we approach the new year, Illinois employers should pay close attention to the myriad of new employment-related statutory requirements taking effect in 2026.

Immigration Enforcement Policy Changes Signed into Law

On December 9, 2025, Governor Pritzker signed House Bill 1312 into law as P.A. 104-0440, implementing obligations and prohibitions for public higher education institutions across the state related to immigration enforcement actions.
Legal Updates & News