About Illinois PIRG
Our team of researchers uncovers the facts; our staff bring our findings to the public, through the media as well as one-on-one interactions; and our advocates bring the voice of the public to the halls of power on behalf of consumers.
An Independent Voice For Consumers
Illinois PIRG is a consumer group that stands up to powerful interests whenever they threaten our health and safety, our financial security or our right to fully participate in our democratic society.
For decades, we’ve stood up for consumers, countering the influence of big banks, insurers, chemical manufacturers and other powerful special interests.
Our Top Priorities
Using the time-tested tools of investigative research, media exposés, grassroots organizing, advocacy and litigation, Illinois PIRG stands up to powerful interests and delivers concrete results.
STOP THE OVERUSE OF ANTIBIOTICS
The overuse of antibiotics on factory farms is contributing to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, threatening millions of Americans every year. We're calling on major restaurants to take strong action to address this growing public health threat. >LEARN MORE
DEMOCRACY FOR THE PEOPLE
We're working to stanch the flow of big money in our democracy by increasing the influence of small donors in elections. We're also part of a national coalition that's helped 16 states and more than 650 cities call for an amendment to overturn Citizens United. >LEARN MORE
CONSUMER PROTECTION
Consumer Program Director Ed Mierzwinski has fought for consumers for more than 20 years. He spearheaded our fight to create the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which has provided more than $11 billion in relief for consumers harmed by illegal practices. >LEARN MORE
21st CENTURY TRANSPORTATION
We're spending billions on highway expansion projects instead of investing in public transit, biking and pedestrian options that people both want and need. We're putting a spotlight on these projects, and calling on policymakers to invest in 21st Century Transportation options. >LEARN MORE
What's New
The Food and Drug Administration proposed a rule today that would require new warnings for cigarette packages that depict the health risks of smoking.
Some Chicago residents who thought they were getting a new water meter ended up with more than they bargained for: lead in their drinking water.
Illinois is hitting the brakes on an expansion of the Tri-State Tollway—and that's good news for taxpayers and commuters.
The number of statewide plastic bag bans in the U.S. tripled in June, with Maine, Vermont, Connecticut and Oregon adding themselves to the list.
Adam Garber, the PIRG consumer watchdog, was shocked when he discovered recalled baby rockers at his infant son's day care this June.
Consumer Tips | U.S. PIRG
Deadly sleepers still in use at daycares
Our Consumer Watchdog team found 1-in-10 daycare centers using recalled sleepers that have killed more than 30 children.
Public Health | U.S. PIRG
Ban Roundup
As cancer victims hold Monsanto accountable in court, our governor should act to ban Roundup unless and until it's proven safe.
Antibiotics | U.S. PIRG
Another chain commits to reduce antibiotics
By committing to a concrete timeline for reducing antibiotic use in its beef supply chain, Taco Bell is taking an important step to help preserve these life-saving medicines. We're calling on Wendy's to follow their lead. Learn more.
Consumer Tips | U.S. PIRG
Capital One exposes 100 million to identity theft in largest-ever bank hack
Coming on top of the settlement of the massive Equifax data breach, the Capital One breach should serve as a wakeup call to all consumers to hit freeze on their financial identity today to ensure they are protected. Here's how.
Support Us
Your donation supports Illinois PIRG’s work to stand up for consumers on the issues that matter, especially when powerful interests are blocking progress.