Carbondale Reporter

Federal prosecutors have requested the court to deny efforts to separate the upcoming racketeering trials of former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan and his co-defendant Michael McClain. Prosecutors argue that trying the men separately would allow each to blame the other. McClain's attorneys had filed a motion seeking to sever his case from Madigan’s, citing concerns that Madigan might point the finger at him during trial. Prosecutors countered that both defendants would benefit from separate trials, enabling them to shift blame onto an absent defendant.

Madigan faces charges including racketeering conspiracy, using interstate facilities in aid of bribery, wire fraud, and attempted extortion.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has predicted record corn and soybean yields in Illinois for this year. The median corn yield is expected to be 227 bushels per acre, while soybeans are projected at 70 bushels per acre. Despite increased yields, lower sales prices for these crops combined with higher costs for fuel, equipment, seed, and chemicals may impact farmers' cash flows.

A federal judge has ordered Stateville Correctional Center to be emptied by September 30 due to inhumane conditions. Judge Andrea R. Wood’s ruling mandates transferring over 420 prisoners to other facilities. State Representative Patrick Sheehan expressed concern about the closure's impact on correctional employees and local communities.

As children return to school, safety at bus stops remains a priority according to the State Board of Education and Illinois State Police. Drivers are reminded that most bus-related accidents occur when children are getting on or off buses.

Some Illinois school districts have adopted new policies restricting student cellphone use on school properties for the 2024-2025 academic year. These policies aim to reduce distractions among students, particularly those diagnosed with attention-span disorders like ADHD.

Legislation introduced by State Representative Jeff Keicher supporting underage trafficking victims has been signed into law by the Governor. House Bill 5465 facilitates expunging or sealing juvenile records for child victims of trafficking involved in criminal acts under duress.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security reported an increase in the state’s unemployment rate to 5.2 percent in July, up from June’s revised rate of 5.0 percent. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 12,900 jobs during this period.

Morton Salt announced it is relocating its headquarters from Chicago to Overland Park, Kansas after more than a century in Illinois. The move is attributed to Kansas being perceived as more tax-friendly and business-friendly compared to Illinois.

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