Illinois

Justice Department Challenges Illinois’ Tuition Benefits for Undocumented Students, Citing Federal Law Violations

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The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Illinois laws that grant in-state tuition and scholarships to undocumented immigrant students. DOJ officials argue that these laws unjustly discriminate against U.S. citizens, who are not eligible for the same financial benefits, claiming such practices conflict with federal regulations. On September 2, the complaint was lodged in the Southern District of Illinois against the state, including Governor J.B. Pritzker, the state attorney general, and various university trustees. At the core of the complaint is the assertion that Illinois’ policy of extending in-state … Read more

"Biometric Data and Liability: A Legal Tightrope as Illinois Weighs Responsibility for Data Misuse"

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CHICAGO — The question of accountability regarding the misuse of biometric data, such as facial features and fingerprints, is increasingly pressing as technology advances. Illinois has been at the forefront of this debate, with its stringent regulations on biometric data outlined in the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA), put into effect in 2008. In a notable case that underscored the potency of these regulations, Facebook faced a class-action lawsuit over allegations that its “Tag Suggestions” feature improperly utilized facial recognition technology without users’ consent. The case concluded in February 2021 with a $650 million settlement, … Read more

Illinois Jury Awards $17.1 Million to Family after Tragic Birth Injury Claims of Medical Negligence

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An Illinois jury has awarded $17.1 million to the family of an infant who died following serious injuries sustained during childbirth. The jury found both the obstetrician and the women’s health clinic liable for the circumstances that led to the fatal outcome, which occurred nine months after the baby’s birth. The lawsuit highlighted the events surrounding the delivery, which were characterized by complications that led to significant brain injuries for the infant. The jury’s decision underscored the severity of the case, reflecting its implications for medical professionals and patient care protocols in obstetrics. During the … Read more

Illinois Takes a Stand: State Officials Condemn Trump’s ‘Illegal’ National Guard Threats as Unprecedented Overreach

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Washington, D.C. — President Donald Trump signed an executive order Monday aimed at deterring flag burning, a move that has drawn significant attention and sparked debate regarding First Amendment rights. This order instructs Attorney General Pam Bondi to vigorously prosecute individuals who burn the American flag during other unlawful acts. The directive emphasizes the possibility of pursuing legal action to clarify the boundaries of First Amendment exceptions related to flag desecration. This comes in light of a 1989 Supreme Court ruling that recognized the constitutional right to burn the flag as a form of free … Read more