(CHICAGO) The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals has halted a federal judge’s order, made two weeks ago today, restricting immigration agents’ use of force, including riot control weapons like tear gas and pepper balls, against protesters, calling the decision as “overbroad.” In siding with the federal government, the three-judge panel ruled the U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis’ preliminary injunction overstepped and “impermissibly” infringed on how the executive branch conducts law enforcement activity, especially action needed against those in America illegally.
(SPRINGFIELD) The Illinois Commerce Commission has approved smaller utility rate hikes than the ones requested by Ameren Illinois and Nicor Gas. The ICC reduced upstate Illinois Nicor’s $314 million increase by nearly 47%, down by $146.5 million. The ICC cut $55.8 million, or about 43%, from Ameren’s $128.8 million rate request for natural gas services. Nonetheless, the final approved numbers will still mean gas cost increases for consumers.
(SPRINGFIELD) Senate President Don Harmon will still not have to pay a nearly $10 million fine for violating state campaign finance laws last year, even though there’s evidence that his campaign clearing broke state law. Staff members of the State Board of Elections originally fined the Oak Park Democrat’s campaign $9.8 million earlier this year, following a Chicago Tribune report that it improperly accepted $4 million more than was allowed during the 2024 election. Even after Harmon appealed and the matter was sent to a hearing officer, that worker also recommended the full board approve the fine. The State Board of Elections, made up of four appointed Republicans and four appointed Democrats deadlocked in a 4 to 4 partisan decision this past Tuesday as to whether the fine should stand as recommended or swept away.