(The Center Square) – Data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis says Illinois’ gross domestic product grew 1.1% in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The only state bordering Illinois to show more growth was Iowa at 1.8%. North Dakota led the nation with 3.8% growth in the fourth quarter.
CHICAGO CARJACKER SENTENCED
A federal judge has sentenced a Chicago man to 14.5 years in prison for crimes related to a carjacking in November 2023.
Prosecutors say Damarri Conner, 23, attacked a woman and her daughter, pointed a gun at the woman and then pointed the gun at the woman’s husband who came to help.
Conner’s accomplice, 29-year-old Kenneth Merritt, is scheduled to be sentenced June 9.
STATE SENATE TO CONSIDER BLUE ENVELOPE BILL
Illinois may soon join the Blue Envelope Program for drivers with autism spectrum disorder.
House Bill 4472 directs the Secretary of State’s office to distribute blue envelopes that drivers with autism could voluntarily use to store required documents, serving as a cue to law enforcement that the driver may have communication challenges.
The legislation cleared the Illinois House unanimously last week and is now in the Illinois Senate.
Catrina Barker contributed to this story.
