WCBU Newscasts (Peoria Public Radio)

Following the discovery of 57 decomposing bodies at a Chicago funeral home, Governor J.B. Pritzker has emphasized the need for stricter regulations on funeral homes and crematories. This incident has prompted discussions on potential reforms involving the Illinois Department of Financial Planning and Regulation.

The city of Peoria is considering new measures to strengthen enforcement against chronic nuisance properties, aiming to reduce criminal activity in rental housing complexes. City Attorney Patrick Hayes indicated that the proposed changes would allow for broader management of properties rather than addressing issues on a unit-by-unit basis.

The Tri-County region of central Illinois experienced minimal storm damage from a recent weather system, with Peoria County Emergency Management reporting no significant issues. However, McLean County faced more severe impacts, including power outages affecting over 20,000 customers and some minor flooding.

The city of Peoria is considering new measures to strengthen enforcement against chronic nuisance properties, aiming to address rising criminal activity in rental housing complexes. City attorney Patrick Hayes indicated that the proposed changes would allow for broader management of properties rather than addressing issues on a unit-by-unit basis.

The Tri-County region of central Illinois experienced minimal storm damage from a recent weather system, with Peoria County reporting no significant issues. In contrast, McLean County faced more severe impacts, including power outages affecting over 20,000 customers and minor flooding in Taswell County.

Congressman Eric Sorensen has expressed concerns over President Trump's executive order aimed at reducing federal vaccine recommendations. Sorensen advocates for parents to consult medical professionals rather than relying on directives from the president regarding their children's vaccinations.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has called for increased regulation of funeral homes and crematories following the discovery of 57 decomposing bodies at a Chicago funeral home. This incident has prompted discussions on the need for reforms within the Illinois Department of Financial Planning and Regulation.

Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen is urging his colleagues in Washington to take action on rising costs affecting American households. During a roundtable with Peoria area officials, he highlighted the struggles faced by seniors on fixed incomes and called for increased support for local agencies assisting families.

The Pekin City Council has approved the installation of two new stop signs at a busy intersection to enhance safety. Residents raised concerns about visibility issues for drivers, prompting the Traffic Safety Committee to recommend the changes after observing the high volume of traffic.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed new legislation aimed at improving women's health care and supporting survivors of domestic violence. The laws include expanded protection orders and easier access to virtual hearings for survivors, addressing modern challenges like digital harassment.

The unsolved shooting of a teenager during a protest in Seattle remains a mystery six years later. An investigation has revealed new evidence and witnesses who claim they were never contacted by police, raising questions about the effectiveness of the investigation.

The YouTube channel of a Peoria church was deleted without warning, resulting in the loss of three years of content. The church's pastor suspects an automated error, and a media expert advises content creators to back up their work to prevent similar losses in the future.

Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen emphasized the need for bipartisan efforts to manage rising costs affecting American households during a roundtable with Peoria area officials. He highlighted the financial struggles faced by seniors on fixed incomes due to increasing expenses in gas, utilities, healthcare, and housing.

Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed new legislation aimed at enhancing women's health care and protecting survivors of domestic violence. The law expands protection orders to include digital harassment and removes barriers for survivors seeking assistance.

The Peoria City Council has approved the installation of two new stop signs at a dangerous intersection to improve safety for drivers. Residents raised concerns about visibility issues caused by a nearby building, prompting the council's decision to implement a four-way stop.

Peoria City Hall is incorporating original sandstone from the downtown Bergner's department store as part of its restoration project. City spokesperson Stacy Peterson highlighted the sustainability aspect of using historically significant materials, which will help preserve the building's facade and prevent further deterioration.

The Peoria Park District is set to host a first-of-its-kind drone light show this summer, which is being promoted as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fireworks. The event, part of Parkapalooza, is expected to have a significant economic impact, generating around half a million dollars for the region.

Peoria police arrested 19-year-old Dennis Bailey after he fired a fully automatic weapon in a confrontation on the city's south side. Bailey was charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated battery and unlawful use of a weapon, after attacking an officer during his arrest. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.

The Bury City Council has given initial approval for a $29 million supportive housing complex aimed at homeless families. Mayor Rita Ali emphasized the importance of this development for revitalizing the south side of the city, while some council members expressed opposition to the project.

The Tazewell County Land Use Committee discussed a proposed ordinance that would restrict data centers to industrial areas only. This decision comes after concerns were raised about allowing data centers in agricultural zones, with no current applications for such facilities in the county.