Judge denies gun ban challenge as another is pending
A federal district judge has denied a motion for partial summary judgment against Illinois’ gun ban. A separate motion for a delay in the Jan. 1 registry requirement is still pending. On Thursday, Judge Stephen McGlynn denied a motion plaintiffs sought to block the law on vagueness grounds. That case was heard in October. The separate case to delay the registration deadline heard last week in district court remains under advisement with a ruling expected soon.
Nippon buys U.S. Steel
U.S. Steel, which has a facility in Granite City, is being acquired by Nippon Steel in an all-cash deal valued at about $14 billion. Nippon said Monday that it will also honor all collective bargaining agreements in place with the United Steelworkers and other employees, and is committed to maintaining its relationship with workers. U.S. Steel laid off about 400 workers in September when the iron and steel-making facility in Granite City was idled.
Southern Illinois earthquake registers
An earthquake shook southern Illinois Monday. The United States Geological Survey reports the 3.2 magnitude earthquake happened around 4:10 a.m. near Waltonville in Jefferson County. There were no reports of damage. Last month, a 3.6 magnitude quake was centered just southwest of La Salle.