Metro East Sun

President Trump has signed the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act, also known as H.R. 1815, into law.

Ameren Illinois introduces $10 million relief program for qualified energy customers

Energy prices in Illinois have increased sharply, with electric bills rising by an estimated 18% to 22% compared to the previous year.

Illinois foster system under scrutiny after teen's death raises questions about oversight

A former caseworker assigned to monitor Illinois foster child Mackenzi Felmlee, who died in May 2024, had a history that included an arrest for a violent crime and multiple protection orders filed against her by several women, according to court...

Bost joins President Trump for signing of VA home loan reform act

U.S. Representative Mike Bost (IL-12) attended a bill signing ceremony at the White House, where President Trump signed the VA Home Loan Program Reform Act into law.

St. Elizabeth’s Hospital breaks ground on $50 million surgery center

By Metro East Sun | Jul 29, 2025

Hospital Sisters Health System (HSHS) St. Elizabeth’s Hospital held a groundbreaking ceremony for its new outpatient surgery center and medical office building on July 28.

Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant applications open through September

By Metro East Sun | Jul 28, 2025

The Open Space Land Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant program is now open for applications, with a deadline set for September 30, 2025.

Chairman Barrett leads field hearing on improving rural veteran healthcare

Today, Rep. Tom Barrett (R-Mich.), Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, delivered opening remarks at a field hearing titled "Beyond the City Limits: Delivering for Rural Veterans."

Illinois State Police hosts first all-women recruitment event

Veterans in Illinois are being encouraged to participate in a survey aimed at improving services for them.

Mike Bost shares updates on trucking industry meeting and local economic issues

Congressman Mike Bost detailed his recent activities with key industries—including trucking and brewing—and voiced opposition to an energy infrastructure project through posts dated July 24-25, 2025.

Kevin Schmidt partners with ImpactLife for successful O'Fallon blood drive

State Representative Kevin Schmidt (R-Millstadt) recently collaborated with ImpactLife to organize a blood drive at O’Fallon Township.

Rep. Mike Bost addresses rural roads and community figures in recent posts

Rep. Mike Bost posted updates between July 21-23 on public events, rural infrastructure concerns for farmers, and a tribute to mentor Ray Doerr.

Mike Bost announces USPS bill reintroduction and VA infrastructure funding

On July 23, Rep. Mike Bost used Twitter to announce new legislation targeting postal shutdown transparency and significant federal funding for veterans’ medical facility upgrades.

Illinois State Rep. Kevin Schmidt addresses constituents in East St. Louis townhall

I visited East St. Louis this week to meet with my constituents who shared their thoughts about Illinois.

House committee advances veteran-focused legislation package

Today, the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, chaired by Mike Bost (R-Ill.), advanced 25 bills for consideration by the full House of Representatives.

Mike Bost addresses rural issues and honors local leader in recent tweets

U.S. Congressman Rep. Mike Bost used Twitter between July 21-23, 2025 to engage constituents with a town hall invitation, discuss rural infrastructure challenges for Southern Illinois farmers, and honor local mentor Ray Doerr following his passing.

Bost announces $800M upgrade for Marion & St. Louis VA facilities

U.S. Representative Mike Bost has announced that the Department of Veterans Affairs will allocate an additional $800 million this year for infrastructure upgrades.

Rep. Mike Bost announces USPS legislation and VA facility upgrades