State of Illinois

The State of Illinois, located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is the fifth most populous state, with a diverse economy and a rich cultural heritage. Its capital is Springfield, and its largest city is Chicago.

The state offers a wide array of services to its residents, businesses, and visitors through various state agencies and departments.

Government Services and Agencies

Illinois operates numerous agencies to manage and deliver essential services:

• Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS): HFS provides healthcare coverage for eligible adults and children through Medicaid and offers child support services to ensure financial support for children.
• Department of Central Management Services (CMS): CMS supports over 80 state agencies by delivering shared resources, including human resources, procurement, and property management services.
• Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT): DoIT guides technology solutions and support for state agencies, ensuring efficient service delivery to Illinois residents.
• Department of Employment Security (IDES): IDES administers unemployment benefits, operates the Illinois Job Bank, and publishes labor market information to assist job seekers and employers.
• Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE): ISBE oversees public education, setting policies and guidelines for schools and ensuring quality education for over 2 million students.
• Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR): IDOR collects state taxes, operates the state lottery, and regulates industries such as casinos and alcohol distribution.
• Illinois Secretary of State: This office manages various services, including issuing driver's licenses, maintaining state records, and overseeing business registrations.

Recent Initiatives and Legislation

The State of Illinois continually works to address the evolving needs of its residents:

• "Driving Change" Campaign: Launched by Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, this initiative addresses alleged economic bias in car insurance pricing, focusing on factors like credit scores and ZIP codes that may disproportionately affect low-income individuals and communities of color.
• WOPR Act: The Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act regulates the use of AI in mental health care, prohibiting AI-driven services from offering therapeutic decision-making to ensure patient safety and quality care.
• 2025 State Budget: The Illinois General Assembly passed a $55 billion state budget, addressing various funding needs, including increases in "sin taxes," highlighting the state's fiscal priorities.

Locations and Offices

The State of Illinois operates offices and facilities in various locations, including:

• Chicago, IL: As the state's largest city, Chicago hosts multiple state offices and services.
• Springfield, IL: The state capital is home to numerous government offices and agencies.
• Joliet, IL: Located southwest of Chicago, Joliet serves as a regional hub for state services.
• Des Plaines, IL: Situated near O'Hare International Airport, Des Plaines hosts various state facilities.
• Cicero, IL: A suburb of Chicago, Cicero is home to state offices serving the local community.
• Oak Park, IL: A suburb adjacent to Chicago, Oak Park hosts state offices serving the local community.
• Berwyn, IL: A nearby suburb providing additional state services.

These locations ensure that Illinois residents have access to essential state services across the region.