Afternoon News Update: April 15

Stateline area tanning salons say they have adjusted to an Illinois law banning customers under the age of 18 from using their tanning beds. The law went into effect in January making the state one of only six in the country to ban teens from using equipment that emits ultraviolet radiation. Officials say clients have been disappointed that they can’t use the tanning beds and are instead asking for spray tans. The law doesn't apply to devices used in private homes, phototherapy devices used by physicians or spray tans.
This year's harsh winter weather has taken its toll on trees across the Stateline. According to officials, ice storms and straight-line winds caused most of the damage. Experts say property owners should carefully inspect trees on their land before leaves obstruct the view of weak spots.
A measure that will establish a pilot program to create a secure facility with on-site substance abuse treatment has been approved by the Illinois House. The facilities will allow individuals convicted of drug or property crimes to serve their sentences in a treatment-intensive environment. Republican Dennis Reboletti, who is sponsoring the bill, says drug addiction is a leading driver of criminal behavior and incarceration. The bill will now head to the State Senate for consideration.
Peoria’s school board has voted to lay off nearly 200 employees. Most of them are full and part-time teachers. School leaders say the district is facing a $6 million budget deficit on top of falling revenue from property taxes. More budget cuts could follow depending on state funding. Peoria School District 150 has about 14,000 students in two dozen schools. It employs about 1,000 teachers.
The owner of a petting zoo in Kane County who is charged with animal cruelty has given up the last of her animals. Stacy Fiebelkorn of Elgin was arrested last month after 11 animals were found dead at her facility. More than 90 starving and sick animals were seized and nearly all of them have been adopted.
Beginning today, officials will be closing North Church Street between Custer Avenue and Brown Street for sanitary sewer repair work. Traffic control measure will be in place. The work is expected to be completed by April 22, weather permitting.

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