Lawmaker proposes bill to regulate self-driving cars | The Chicago Report

Hastings calls for enhanced training for court-appointed guardians to protect Illinois children

SPRINGFIELD — On Wednesday, the Senate Judiciary Committee held a subject matter hearing for a measure sponsored by State Senator Michael E. Hastings emphasizing the importance high-quality training for guardians ad litem in Illinois courts. This would better protect the health, safety and welfare of children involved in family law and juvenile proceedings.

“Guardians ad Litem are the eyes and ears of the court for our most vulnerable children,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Their recommendations can have a profound impact on a child’s future. It is essential that court-appointed guardians receive the training and resources they need to make informed, impartial decisions, especially in matters involving medical care and chronic health conditions.”

Guardians ad Litem are court-appointed individuals who investigates and represents the best interests of children or incapacitated adults in legal proceedings. They play a critical role in cases involving custody, parenting time, abuse, neglect and other matters affecting child welfare. They conduct independent investigations, interview children and relevant parties, review records and provide objective recommendations to the court free from parental bias or conflict.

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Hastings advances bill to protect homeowners from ‘storm chaser’ contractor scams

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings advanced legislation aimed at protecting Illinois homeowners from deceptive and high pressure contractor practices that often follow severe weather and natural disasters.

“When families are rebuilding after a fire or storm, they can be susceptible to high pressure tactics,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “You get these storm chasers who promise the world and pressure homeowners to sign contracts on the spot.”

Senate Bill 3029 would prohibit a contractor from offering home repair or remodeling services while a loss-producing event, such as a fire or storm, is occurring at the premises; while the fire department or emergency personnel are engaged at the premises; or between the hours of 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. The measure would still allow consumers to initiate solicitation with contractors during these scenarios.

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Hastings calls for legislative action on homeowners insurance rates despite record auto rebate from State Farm

SPRINGFIELD — Since October 2024, State Senator Michael Hastings has been raising concerns about steep and unjustified homeowners insurance rate increases affecting families across Illinois and has repeatedly called for legislative reforms to protect consumers. Hastings is again urging legislative action to protect homeowners after State Farm recently announced a historic dividend for auto insurance customers.

“Illinois families deserve a system that protects consumers, demands transparency and ensures rates are based on real data and fair standards,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We will continue pressing forward until homeowners receive the same level of fairness and relief that auto policyholders are now beginning to see.”

Hastings has introduced multiple bills focused on addressing excessive increases in homeowners and auto insurance premiums, strengthening transparency in rate setting and ensuring stronger oversight of insurance companies.

Homeowners continue to face significant premium increases with little explanation or accountability. Many Illinois residents have experienced sharp rate spikes while lacking clear information about how those increases are calculated.

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