Quincy Reporter

The federal government has entered the legal battle over a new Illinois law that may alter how banks and credit unions manage transaction fees. The U.S. Office of the Comptroller of the Currency has submitted an amicus brief supporting a lawsuit to halt the Illinois Interchange Fee Prohibition Act.

The law, passed earlier this year, aims to prohibit banks from charging interchange fees on taxes and tips. Critics argue it could complicate transactions for retailers and consumers, forcing multiple card swipes for purchases and sales tax. Federal officials contend that the law interferes with their authority and endangers “safe and sound banking” by undermining necessary fees that cover transaction costs and prevent fraud.

Proponents of the law claim banks are overstating concerns, asserting they can separate taxes and tips from fees without system disruption. The case is scheduled for court on October 30th.

In other news, round two of the Illinois Grocery Initiative’s "New Stores in Food Deserts" program is now accepting applications. This initiative offers $11 million in grants to improve access to fresh food in underserved areas. Sen. Tracy supports this legislation to aid communities facing food insecurity.

Eligible grocery stores must meet several criteria, including classification under specific North American Industry Classification System codes, location in a food desert census tract, limited revenue from alcohol and tobacco sales, acceptance of SNAP and WIC benefits, and contribution to community fresh food diversity.

Grants will range from $150,000 to $2.4 million with applicants required to provide matching funds at a 1:3 ratio. Eligible applicants include local governments and independent grocers or cooperatives with fewer than 500 employees across no more than four store locations. Applications are due by December 2, 2024.

As Halloween approaches, Sen. Tracy shares safety tips for trick-or-treating: adhere to local hours, use sidewalks, carry flashlights for visibility, inspect candy before consumption, choose flame-resistant costumes or use polyester/nylon materials for DIY outfits, wear bright clothing or reflective tape for visibility enhancement; opt for makeup instead of masks; test makeup ahead of time; avoid non-prescription decorative contact lenses; wait until treats are inspected before eating them; avoid unwrapped or homemade treats; check labels for allergens; remove choking hazards like gum or small toys from young children’s bags.

With cooler weather signaling respiratory virus season's onset, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) updates its Seasonal Respiratory Illness Dashboard providing real-time data on illness trends statewide including hospital visits demographics outbreak reports urging residents take preventive measures such as staying home when sick self-isolating if experiencing symptoms unless medical care needed

Finally celebrating record-breaking attendance numbers Du Quoin State Fair drew over 204000 visitors during its August run surpassing previous records thanks cool temperatures new attractions fairground upgrades headlining performances including Ashley McBryde KANSAS Chris Lane Marshall Tucker Band alongside opening Twilight Parade final performance Nelly combining these figures with Illinois State Fair total attendance exceeded 977000 planning underway next year’s fairs