State Farm

State Farm has slowed implementation of some controversial contract changes for its network of agents but retained its elimination of insurance benefits.

To celebrate Habitat for Humanity of McLean County's 50th anniversary, State Farm is sponsoring two wall builds and a full home — providing a path to sustainable housing for two local families.

Country Financial has already seen 1,000 property and auto claims from this week's back-to-back severe wind and tornado events. They expect more in the coming days as residents sort through their homes.

Many State Farm agents said they feel angry and betrayed by the Bloomington-based company.

Urban Equity Properties began construction Monday, turning the old State Farm building into an upscale 183-unit apartment complex in Downtown Bloomington. City officials say an increase in inventory, regardless of price point, provides relief for renters in search of affordable housing.

The Illinois legislature has passed rate-increase regulations for both home and auto insurance, though critics argue the changes fail to address the root cause of rate increases and could backfire by raising costs and reducing options for coverage.

State Farm has told its 19,000 agents it is changing its compensation and benefits contract for them. The Bloomington-based company is also cutting benefits for retired agents.

Phase one, including the first 57 apartments, is expected to be completed by next summer. Justin Fern of Urban Equity Properties spoke to WGLT on details for the planned G.J. Lofts project.

So far, State Farm and Country Financial have fielded a combined 656 insurance claims in McLean County from the April 17 storms and tornadoes.

District 87 Superintendent David Mouser said cells phones are the leading cause for disciplinary referrals at Bloomington High School. A new policy rolled out this year bans phones in classrooms.