The Pritzker Administration failed to respond despite 11 days of reports about a COVID-19 outbreak at the LaSalle Veterans’ Home, resulting in 36 deaths, according to a state audit. Now Illinois House members plan to probe the failings.

Chicago drivers were issued more speed tickets in 2021 than there are city residents. Annual ticket revenues doubled, but fatal crashes still increased.

Travelers on planes, buses and other public transportation will have to stay masked until April 18. The federal mandate was to expire March 18.

Chicago Public Schools will make masks optional for students and staff starting March 14, following CDC guidance. The Chicago Teacher’s Union said union leaders were working to block the decision and keep students masked.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker has revised the indoor mask mandate issued in August, limiting indoor masking to health care and congregate facilities. Also, he said the Illinois Department of Public Health director is resigning.

After the Illinois Supreme Court determined the state’s appeal of decisions regarding the governor’s school mask rules was moot, the governor declared schools can move to mask optional policies on Feb. 28.

Gov. J.B. Pritzker will end the statewide indoor mask mandate for most Illinoisans Feb. 28, joining the 39 other states who have already lifted COVID-19 restrictions on residents. Illinois will be the only state in the Midwest still mandating masks in schools at the state level.