Illinois Political and State News Roundup

Illinois agriculture leaders expressed frustration after the U.S. Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry failed to advance a new farm bill before lawmakers left for the August recess.

Illinois Corn Growers Association President Mark Bunselmeyer said the delay was disappointing as farmers face growing uncertainty over federal agricultural policy.

The ICGA noted in a statement that the current farm bill extension is scheduled to expire Sept. 30, leaving Illinois farmers and the broader agricultural sector without long-term certainty.

Bunselmeyer said the organization wants Congress to continue refining the legislation while preserving the bipartisan support necessary for final passage.

Bost Calls for Support of Education Tax Credit

U.S. Rep. Mike Bost, R-Murphysboro, is urging Illinois officials to support the education tax credit established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which was approved last year.

Bost said in a statement that every family and student in Illinois should have the ability to choose an education that meets their individual needs, regardless of financial circumstances or where they live.

He said the tax credit could give families more options when making decisions about their children’s education.

Durbin Criticizes Fauci Contempt Resolution

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin of Illinois criticized Republican members of the Senate after a committee advanced a contempt of Congress resolution involving former National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Director Anthony Fauci.

The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-5 Thursday to refer Fauci to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C.

Durbin responded in a social media post, saying it is a sad day when leaders use their authority in ways that cause harm, feed ego or damage individuals who have spent their lives in service to others.

Andrew Rice contributed to this story.

State Fair Announces 2026 Discount Days

The Illinois State Fair has released its theme and schedule of discount admission days for 2026.

The “Double the Fun” parking promotion will be available Aug. 13.

“TWOsday” on Aug. 18 will feature $2 admission for adults and $2 carnival rides.

Veterans and Gold Star families will receive free admission Aug. 16.

Seniors and scouts wearing uniforms will be admitted free Aug. 17.

First responders and health care workers who present identification will receive free admission Aug. 21.

The Illinois State Fair will run from Aug. 13 through Aug. 23 at the state fairgrounds in Springfield.