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Chicago Sun-Times: Pritzker marks New Year’s Eve by expunging nearly half a million marijuana arrest records, pardoning thousands more
Thousands of pardons have been issued for low-level cannabis convictions and nearly half a million non-felony cannabis-related arrest records have been expunged, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Thursday.
Pritzker’s office said the governor had issued pardons for 9,129 low-level cannabis conviction records; the arrest records have been expunged by the Illinois State Police.
The Center Square: Incoming Illinois General Assembly faces COVID-19 oversight, budget deficit, other challenges
Because of COVID-19, the Illinois Legislature could take up the ability to legislate remotely in the new year, but some have concerns it could limit accountability and taxpayer participation.
Democrats at the Illinois statehouse have a variety of priorities for the new year, including criminal justice reform, clean energy legislation and other issues. But because of COVID-19, some have continued concerns from meeting in person.
Chicago Tribune: 4 Chicago restaurants, 2 businesses cited for violating coronavirus guidelines over Christmas weekend
Over Christmas weekend, several Chicago businesses were cited by the Department of Business and Consumer Protection for violating COVID-19 safety guidelines, including allowing indoor dining and hosting private events that exceeded allowed capacities.
The restaurants that were cited for allowing indoor dining were Arcoiris, Canton Regio, Mama Delia & Bordel and New Celebrity Lounge. The two parties were both in the Austin neighborhood. A 57-person party was at Classy, while another 153-person party took place at an unnamed establishment.