
SPRINGFIELD — After hearing the governor’s budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2027, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) released the following statement:
“Our state budget faces real challenges, particularly with uncertainty in federal funding that supports Medicaid and essential services, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Meeting these obligations will require fiscal discipline and responsible priorities to protect residents while ensuring government lives within its means.
“I was encouraged that the governor expressed a willingness to work on an issue I have been leading on for nearly two years: the unreasonable increases in homeowners insurance premiums affecting families across Illinois. I look forward to working with his administration on solutions to rising costs, as well as addressing predatory ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ practices that can harm consumers’ credit and long-term financial stability.
“At a time when many Illinoisans are focused on affordability and economic certainty, we must remain disciplined, collaborative and results-driven to deliver responsible solutions for our neighbors.”

SPRINGFIELD — Subscription services often make canceling an active subscription difficult and convoluted in order to make customers give up or forget canceling the service. In response, State Senator Michael E. Hastings introduced legislation designed to protect Illinois consumers from hidden fees and confusing subscription contracts.
“This bill would ensure that families across Illinois know exactly what they’re signing up for,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Companies would be required to clearly explain automatic renewal terms, recurring charges and cancellation deadlines. Consumers would have simple, straightforward ways to cancel, and no business could raise prices without your consent or without giving you the option to cancel and receive a refund.”
Senate Bill 3562 would give consumers clear, retainable disclosures before subscriptions are activated. It would also guarantee that cancellations can be completed easily—online or in the same way the consumer signed up—and would ensure companies provide timely notice for any price increases or changes to contract terms.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced the introduction of legislation that would establish autonomous vehicle pilot programs across Illinois.
“This legislation will help Illinois lead the nation in safe, innovative transportation,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Companies like Zoox, Waymo, Cruise and Aurora are developing the technology that will make travel safer, more efficient and more accessible for everyone. Illinoisans deserve a transportation system ready for the future, and this bill does just that.”
If passed, initial pilot programs will focus on large urban centers, Sangamon County and the Metro East region, with expansion based on pilot results. Senate Bill 3392 would require autonomous vehicle operators to submit an Operational Design Domain plan to the Illinois Department of Transportation, detailing where and how vehicles will operate.

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is spearheading legislation aimed at improving emergency response in Illinois schools using mobile panic alert systems. The bill seeks to provide schools with modern tools to quickly alert first responders in the event of a crisis.
“Every second matters in an emergency,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Schools need access to reliable technology to protect students, teachers and staff while connecting seamlessly with law enforcement and emergency services.”
Senate Bill 2948 would direct the Illinois State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Illinois State Police, to conduct market research and develop statewide standards for mobile panic alert systems. Schools and districts that implement these systems would also be eligible for grant funding to support adoption and ongoing use.
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