Matt Smith Stories | SE Illinois News

Reis, Severin join Democrats to pass budget amendment

By Matt Smith | Jun 30, 2017

Hours before the fiscal year runs out, the Illinois House voted 90-25 to approve a budget amendment.

House Democrat Brandon Phelps receives personalized letter asking him to stand up on property tax freeze

By Matt Smith | Jun 28, 2017

Southeast Illinois area Democrat in the House Brandon Phelps (D-Harrisburg) recently received a letter from the Illinois Republican Party, drawing his attention to the permanent property tax freeze he voted for in January and calling for action on property tax relief now.

Forby accused of being in Speaker Mike Madigan’s pocket

By Matt Smith | Aug 9, 2016

A recent ad paid for by the Illinois House Republican Organization has sent out a strong message against Sen. Gary Forby for being in Speaker Mike Madigan’s pocket.

Marion Community School District establishes Concussion Oversight Committee

By Matt Smith | Jul 12, 2016

The Marion Community Unit School District No. 2 Board of Education recently voted to establish a Concussion Oversight Committee to monitor concussions for student athletes in high school and junior high school in Marion.