(SPRINGFIELD) With more than 170 semi-automatic firearms now banned in Illinois for a full year, the law that did so continues to face legal challenges and a low compliance rate. It was one year ago today that Governor Pritzker enacted the Protect Illinois Communities Act, despite the fact that Sheriffs and State’s Attorneys across the state saying they would not make enforcement of the law a top priority. So far to date, about 98.7 % of Illinois Firearms Owners ID card holders have not registered now banned weapons, although not all card holders own such guns. Several pending lawsuits claim the law is unconstitutional.
(SPRINGFIELD) American Red Cross Illinois says blood donations are desperately needed as the country faces its most severe blood supply shortage in 20 years. Officials report the number of blood donors has fallen by 40% over the past couple of decades and they add that blood donations in recent weeks have been given to hospitals faster than they are coming in. Between Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Red Cross says there was a nearly 7,000 unit shortfall when it comes to blood donations. Go to redcrossblood.org for more.
(SPRINGFIELD) Motorists who use Illinois toll roads and pay in advance will see some changes this year. I-PASS stickers will soon go on the windshields of vehicles and will replace the plastic responder boxes. Officials say the stickers are smaller and less expensive to print than the boxes that have been used for years. Drivers will be able to use their I-PASS transponders until they expire, at which time the transfer to stickers will be made.