Marisol Vega

Marisol Vega

Marisol writes about how city decisions affect everyday people. From housing and schools to city programs, she breaks down the news so it’s easy to understand. Her focus is helping readers know what’s changing and how it matters to them.

Cook County SNAP Help: Where to Get Food Stamp Assistance in the Chicago Area

Cook County SNAP Help: Where to Get Food Stamp Assistance in the Chicago Area

CHICAGO — From long wait times to confusing re-certification paperwork, getting help with food stamps in Cook County isn’t always easy. But across the ...

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Illinois Is Expanding License Plate Surveillance in 2025 — Here’s What Drivers Need to Know

Illinois Is Expanding License Plate Surveillance in 2025 — Here’s What Drivers Need to Know

ILLINOIS — A new law that took effect in July 2025 is expanding the use of license plate surveillance technology across the state. Under ...

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Illinois Drivers Can Now Claim Bigger EV Rebates — But There’s a Deadline

Illinois Drivers Can Now Claim Bigger EV Rebates — But There’s a Deadline

ILLINOIS — If you’ve been thinking about buying an electric vehicle, now might be the perfect time. As of July 1, 2025, Illinois has ...

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The ‘Right-Hand Rule’ Is Back — Here’s What Every Illinois Driver Must Know in 2025

The ‘Right-Hand Rule’ Is Back — Here’s What Every Illinois Driver Must Know in 2025

ILLINOIS — Drivers across the state are being reminded of a basic—but often overlooked—traffic law: the Right-Hand Rule. Illinois law now expressly enforces this ...

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Illinois Gas Tax Just Went Up Again — Here’s What Chicago Drivers Now Pay Per Gallon

Illinois Gas Tax Just Went Up Again — Here’s What Chicago Drivers Now Pay Per Gallon

CHICAGO — Starting July 1, 2025, filling up at the pump in Chicago just got even more expensive. That’s because Illinois increased its motor ...

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Chicago Minimum Wage Just Increased — Here’s How Much You Should Be Making in 2025

Chicago Minimum Wage Just Increased — Here’s How Much You Should Be Making in 2025

CHICAGO — Thousands of hourly workers in Chicago are now legally entitled to higher pay, as the city’s minimum wage officially increased on July ...

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Direct deposit is the fastest way to receive unemployment benefits. Here’s how it compares to paper checks.

How to Appeal an Illinois Unemployment Overpayment in 2025 — A Step-by-Step Guide

ILLINOIS — Thousands of residents across the state are opening letters they never expected in 2025 — overpayment notices from the Illinois Department of ...

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How to Apply for Medicaid or Medicare in Illinois — Step-by-Step for 2025

How to Apply for Medicaid or Medicare in Illinois — Step-by-Step for 2025

ILLINOIS — Whether you’re turning 65, living with a disability, or struggling with low income, Medicaid and Medicare are two of the most important ...

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When Will You Get Your Social Security Check Full 2025 Payment Calendar for Illinois Residents

When Will You Get Your Social Security Check? Full 2025 Payment Calendar for Illinois Residents

ILLINOIS — For millions of people across the state, the timing of their monthly Social Security check matters. Whether you’re retired, disabled, or receiving ...

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How to Check Your SNAP Balance in Illinois — Online, App, and Phone Options for July 2025

How to Check Your SNAP Balance in Illinois — Online, App, and Phone Options for July 2025

ILLINOIS — Whether you’re shopping for groceries or planning meals for the week, knowing your EBT balance is essential for every SNAP recipient. The ...

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