Welcome to Illinois State Senator Michael Hastings' Legislative Website

Hastings encourages municipalities, park districts to apply for IDNR grant

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is urging park districts and municipalities in the 19th District to apply for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant.

“Some places become more than parks, they become gathering places where memories are made, friendships are formed and communities grow stronger,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We have made great steps recently with Fort Frankfort and Schussler Park. I am excited to see what comes next here in the 19th.”

This year, $37.5 million in grant funding is available for qualifying applicants. IDNR will provide funding to cover 90% of eligible projects in underserved communities. Eligible projects can include development or renovation of picnic tables, playgrounds, fishing piers, sports courts/fields, park paths and more.

Communities whose parks have been damaged as a result of severe weather are encouraged to apply as well.

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Hastings secures over $560,000 for South Suburban libraries

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced 18 public libraries and school districts across the South Suburbs are set to receive more than $560,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.

“The local library is where our kids grow up,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “They are essential for quality education and cannot be left behind. I am proud to deliver this much-needed funding to libraries in the South Suburbs.”

More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.

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Hastings’ new law provides oversight of predatory Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois consumers have seen that a rapid expansion of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loan services may seem convenient at first, but they can carry hidden costs, unexpected fees and financial risks that often go unnoticed until it is too late. In response, State Senator Michael E. Hastings passed a law enforcing stronger oversight of these predatory programs.

“This industry has grown so fast over such a short period of time,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We are now to a point where Buy-Now-Pay-Later programs are operating like it’s the Wild West.”

Hastings’ new law will require BNPL lenders to register with the state and provide full disclosures about repayment terms, interest rates and potential fees while maintaining fair and transparent dispute or refund processes. The law will also ensure consumers understand the total cost of borrowing and can make informed financial decisions.

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Hastings supports suicide prevention awareness and education expansion

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings supported a measure that would increase access to life-saving mental health resources and strengthen suicide prevention efforts across the state.

“By integrating comprehensive suicide prevention training into curriculums, there is an opportunity to equip our children with the knowledge and attitudes necessary to effectively address suicide risk,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “By helping people build life skills, such as critical thinking and stress management, we can prepare them to safely address the challenges they face in life.”

Senate Bill 2771 would require numerous public buildings across Illinois to visibly post contact information for the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, ensuring residents know immediate help is available. The legislation would also expand comprehensive health education for students in grades six through 12 by integrating evidence-based suicide prevention curriculum, as well as strengthen reentry support by requiring the Illinois Department of Corrections to provide suicide prevention resources to individuals preparing for release.

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