Great Lakes Protection: Construction has begun on the Brandon Road Interbasin Project near Joliet, a $1.15 billion effort meant to stop invasive Asian carp from reaching the Great Lakes. Public Safety vs. Privacy: Illinois lawmakers advanced a bill that would limit police use and retention of automated license plate reader data, including bans on tracking people at protests and for immigration enforcement. AI Oversight in Springfield: Illinois passed a landmark AI accountability measure requiring transparency and third-party safety audits for the most powerful AI systems, sending it to Gov. Pritzker. Insurance Relief: A new Illinois package would curb auto insurance rate hikes by giving drivers notice, letting regulators challenge excessive increases, and ordering rebates when rates are unfair. Chicago Politics & Faith: Mayor Brandon Johnson invited Pope Leo XIV to officiate Mass in Grant Park next year, delivering the invitation during a Vatican meeting. Local Tragedy: A man died after a fire he allegedly started in Gage Park spread to three buildings; investigators are still working the case. Sports: The Cubs beat the Pirates 7-2 as Ian Happ homered again, and the Bears stadium debate remains a key Springfield deadline item.