Federal Government Reopens After Record-Breaking Shutdown
After weeks of uncertainty and disruption, the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history has finally come to an end.
On October 1, Washington Democrats triggered the shutdown after rejecting a bipartisan plan that would have kept the government open. The stalemate dragged on for 43 days before Congress ultimately approved a bipartisan funding bill, allowing federal agencies and services to begin returning to normal operations.
The shutdown had far-reaching consequences. More than 600,000 federal employees were furloughed, leaving families across the nation, and here in Illinois, without paychecks. Farmers were left waiting for critical federal assistance, travelers endured delays and service disruptions, and countless Illinoisans were forced to navigate stalled federal programs during the weeks-long impasse.
State Senator Sally Turner says the dysfunction was senseless and avoidable, arguing that the shutdown served no purpose other than inflicting hardship on families, workers, and communities. She noted that Democrats could have prevented the crisis entirely had leaders been willing to accept bipartisan solutions at the outset.
The newly approved funding bill reopens the federal government and keeps it operating through January 30, 2026.
IDOT Moves DBE Programs Away from DEI-Based Certification
The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is adjusting its Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) certification program to comply with a new rule from the United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) that recently took effect. Under the new rule, states can no longer presume business owners qualify for DBE certification based solely on race or gender.
Going forward, every DBE applicant and currently certified firm must show individualized proof of being socially and economically disadvantaged. This can be accomplished through a personal narrative, a net worth statement, and detailed evidence of barriers they may face. IDOT confirms firms previously certified under the older presumptions will need to recertify under this new framework. In the meantime, contract goals tied to DBE certification are on hold until recertification is complete.
State Senator Sally Turner says this is a significant change in how Illinois administers one of its small-business access programs, shifting from group-based preference toward individual qualification irrespective of race or gender. She says this move will help ensure that state programs are based on fairness and need, not identity, creating a more equal and accountable system for all business owners.
Veterans Honored by Remembrance Wall
During the fall Veto Session, members of the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus once again hosted their annual Veterans Day Wall of Honor display at the Capitol, giving Illinoisans a way to pay tribute to the men and women who bravely served our nation.
From October 28 to November 13, visitors to the Capitol stopped to view the memorial, which featured a large electronic display of veterans and their stories, along with a wall where guests could write personal messages of thanks. Throughout the display, families, students, veterans, and Capitol visitors paused to read the tributes and add their own notes of appreciation.
The Wall of Honor showcased photos and short narratives from every branch of the military and from conflicts spanning World War II to the Global War on Terrorism, as well as peacetime service. The display served as a powerful reminder of the sacrifice, courage, and commitment of those who wore the uniform.
Safety Reminders for Illinois Families This Thanksgiving
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, State Senator Sally Turner is sharing helpful tips to ensure that you and your family have a fun and safe holiday.
According to the American Red Cross, Thanksgiving and the day before are the top two days of the year for home cooking fires in the United States. Nationwide, cooking-related incidents cause an average of 158,400 home fires each year, accounting for 44 percent of all home fires. With millions of Americans preparing large holiday meals, the Red Cross warns that simple mistakes in the kitchen can quickly turn dangerous.
To help families stay safe this Thanksgiving, Illinoisans can follow these helpful cooking safety tips:
- Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen for even a short period of time, turn off the stove.
- Use a timer to remind yourself that the stove or oven is on.
- Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking.
- Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from cooking areas.
- Keep anything that can catch on fire — potholders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains — away from your stove top and oven or any other appliance that generates heat.
- Clean cooking surfaces on a regular basis to prevent grease buildup.
- Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher to keep in your kitchen.
- Always check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving home to make sure all stoves, ovens, and small appliances are turned off.
- Check your smoke alarm batteries.
Following these precautions can help prevent kitchen accidents and reduce the likelihood of a holiday fire emergency.
U.S. Mint Ends Production of the Penny After More Than Two Centuries
After more than 230 years in circulation, the United States Mint has officially stopped producing the penny. The final one-cent coin was struck on November 12, 2025, at the Mint’s Philadelphia facility, marking the end of an era for America’s longest-running coin.
The penny was first authorized by Congress in 1792 and began circulating in 1793. Over the centuries, it has featured several designs, with President Abraham Lincoln appearing on the front since 1909. Over time, the makeup of the penny has changed, with it being made of 97.5 percent zinc and 2.5 percent copper since 1982.
Officials say production costs were a major factor in the decision. In recent years, it has cost nearly four cents to make each penny, far exceeding its face value. While new coins will no longer be produced, existing pennies will remain legal tender and continue to circulate for years to come.