Sources: Deal Reached To Avoid CTA Fare Hike
Regional transit officials and Gov. Pat Quinn have reportedly reached a deal to help the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) avoid the steep fare hikes it has proposed. Under the plan, the Regional Transportation Authority would issue bonds for capital projects that would be funneled to the CTA, freeing up the agency to devote its own capital funds to operational expenses.

State Invests In New Veterans Hospital
Meanwhile, Gov. Quinn unveiled plans yesterday to build a new long-term, 200-bed facility for Illinois veterans on the Northwest Side of Chicago. Construction on the $65 million project is expected to last 12- to 14-months.

Quinn: Early Release Is Needed
Gov. Quinn defended his decision to release some non-violent inmates before their sentences officially ended, a process that began yesterday. Department of Corrections spokeswoman Januari Smith said it could take months to release all 1,000 prisoners.

Court Keeps Cops' Names Under Wraps
Police accountability advocates seeking a list of Chicago cops who have received multiple citizen complaints were dealt a setback yesterday when a panel of federal judges agreed to keep the names under wraps at the Daley administration's request.

Prosecutors Claim Students Paid Two Witnesses
Prosecutors argued in court Tuesday that Northwestern University journalism students paid two witnesses in order to make their case that an innocent man was wrongly convicted of murder. Professor David Protess denied the allegations, describing the state's court filing as a "smear campaign."

Commision Says Millions Left In Student Loans
The Illinois Student Assistance Commission says it still has $66 million for low-interest, federally secured college loans for the 2009-2010 academic year. Last year, the commission dished out $170 million in loans, many of which have more favorable terms than the offerings of private institutions.

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