Sat Jan 18 17:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Flags at Half-Staff for Carter; Illinois Faces Budget Crisis, Retail Crime Allegations, and More
**Bloomington, IL –** President Biden has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until January 29th in honor of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away on December 29th. This announcement comes amidst a flurry of local and state news.
Illinois is bracing for a significant $3 billion budget shortfall, with House Speaker Chris Welch issuing a warning to Chicago’s mayor regarding potential consequences. Meanwhile, the Illinois Attorney General’s office is alleging that a Bloomington family operated an organized retail crime ring through their Monster Pawn locations. An investigation is underway.
On a local level, Bloomington police are investigating a shooting incident that occurred Monday night on Riley Drive. Additionally, the IRS is expected to distribute special payments of up to $1,400 to approximately one million taxpayers by the end of January.
A correction has been issued regarding an error in Monday’s edition of The Pantagraph’s Veterans Corner column. Readers can stay updated on these and other stories through the Pantagraph’s e-edition, mobile app, and by subscribing to their newsletter for daily news updates.
First Piper 