Cook County, Illinois

A heat wave across much of the U.S. has caused at least 24 heat-related deaths, with 40 million people under heat alerts. A heat dome from the Midwest to the East Coast contributed to record-breaking temperatures, and climate change is linked to increasing heat wave intensity. The National Weather Service warns of continued dangerous conditions in the Southeast.

The U.S. Supreme Court will hear cases challenging assault weapons bans in Connecticut and Cook County, Illinois, with arguments over whether such laws violate the Second Amendment. Gun control groups argue the bans are public safety measures, while gun rights advocates claim they are unconstitutional. Similar laws exist in multiple states, and the court's decision could impact firearm regulations nationwide.

Multiple U.S. mayors are working to sustain guaranteed income programs after federal pandemic relief funding expires at the end of 2024. Cities like Evanston, Illinois and Cook County are racing to spend remaining ARPA funds while seeking alternative local funding sources to keep the cash assistance programs permanent.