Government - State

SPRINGFIELD – An Illinois state senator said Monday he will rework legislation allowing the carrying of concealed guns that emerged last week after concerns about extra levels of scrutiny for Chicago and Cook County, but he defended the proposal against complaints that it was more restrictive than first touted.

SOMONAUK – Multiple sclerosis made Jim Champion a prisoner in his own body.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan is asking the U.S. Supreme Court for more time to decide whether to file an appeal on a court order that the state enact a law allowing public possession of firearms.

SPRINGFIELD – With about 40 days before a federal court-ordered deadline to enact a law allowing public possession of firearms, Gov. Pat Quinn is holding fast to the notion that decisions about who may carry guns – and where – should be made at city hall, not by a statewide standard.

Illinois General Assembly under pressure as final month approaches

CHICAGO – Gov. Pat Quinn's administration has halted state funding for a large charter school operator, saying it violated the terms of a $98 million grant when failed to disclose that it had hired for construction projects in Chicago two companies owned by the brothers of one of the operator's top executives.

The Illinois House has met more days than usual this year, but it has no accomplishments yet on the big issues – pensions, the budget and concealed carry of guns.

CHICAGO – A unique housing complex geared toward helping veterans at risk of becoming homeless will be built on Chicago's South Side, state officials announced Thursday.

CHICAGO – An Illinois state senator has pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor after being accused last year of trying to board a flight with a gun.