An Illinois gas company has settled a lawsuit filed by the State and three counties for $2.25 million. The suit alleged that mercury was improperly handled and spilled when Nicor Gas replaced meters in customer homes. Over 1,000 homes in northern Illinois tested positive for mercury contamination. At high doses, mercury exposure can cause tremors, inability to walk, convulsions, and even death. Brain, kidney, and lung damage have also been linked to long-term mercury exposure. The settlement will help fund environmental projects in Illinois over the next four years.