Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

Pension debt limits teacher pay, hurts recruitment in Illinois

Pension debt limits teacher pay, hurts recruitment in Illinois

Money that could help address the teacher shortage is often the first to get cut in pursuit of keeping up with government pension debt. Supporting Illinois teachers will require constitutional pension reform and protecting Tier 2 cost savings.

By LyLena Estabine

Iowa barbers now earn as they learn; Illinois forces $38k in costs

Iowa barbers now earn as they learn; Illinois forces $38k in costs

Iowa just cut cosmetology and barber training red tape, allowing students to learn on the job, get paid and finish debt free. Illinois should do the same, offering apprenticeships in licensed occupations rather than forcing aspiring workers to take on big debt.

By Lauren Zuar

Illinois nurse shortage fix is blocked by unions

Illinois nurse shortage fix is blocked by unions

Joining the multi-state Nurse Licensure Compact offers a solution to Illinois’ growing nurse shortage, but certain special interest groups stand in the way, limiting patients’ access to timely medical care.

By Jack Knorr