Illinois quick update: layoffs announced at Stellantis; approved regulations on the cost of inhalers

Layoffs announced at Stellantis

The United Auto Workers reports that 130 workers at the Stellantis plant in Belvidere will be laid off this week. The announcement comes as the automaker, which has approval to reopen the plant, announced layoffs in March. A Stellantis spokesman called the layoffs temporary but did not provide a return-to-work date.

Regulations on the cost of inhalers have been approved

The governor’s measure would cap the monthly cost of prescription inhalers at $25 for people with Illinois-regulated health insurance plans. Typical costs for inhalers for people with asthma and other lung diseases range from $150 to $300 per month. The plan would also prohibit health insurance companies from limiting coverage or denying inhalers. If signed, the act will come into force in 2026.

Sailing advisories ahead of Memorial Day

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of the summer boating season, so the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and Illinois State Conservation Police are urging people to wear life jackets while on the water and only operate their boats when sober. According to statistics compiled by the Illinois Environmental Protection Police, there were 70 reportable boating accidents in Illinois waters last year, resulting in 12 deaths and 37 injuries. Of the 12 fatalities, eight were not wearing life jackets or vests.