Hastings named to Advisory Committee for incoming Cook County Chief Judge Charlie Beach

CHICAGO — State Senator Michael E. Hastings has been selected to serve on the Advisory Committee supporting Judge Charlie Beach as he transitions into his role as Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

“It is a tremendous honor to be asked to serve on this Advisory Committee,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Judge Charlie Beach is a leader of integrity and vision who has earned the trust of his colleagues and our community. I am proud to call Charlie a friend, and I know that under his leadership, Cook County’s courts will continue to uphold the highest standards of justice.”

The Advisory Committee brings together judges, justice partners, community leaders, and policy experts to help shape early administrative and operational priorities under Chief Judge Beach’s leadership. The transition structure is designed to reflect the values of good governance, open communication, data driven decision making and integrity, ensuring that the new administration begins with clear priorities and inclusive input from across the judicial system.

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Hastings calls for bipartisan action to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"This is not a partisan issue. It is a human issue," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Families in every corner of our state, both urban and rural, Republican and Democrat, depend on these benefits to put food on the table. We must come together to ensure that no one goes hungry because of political gridlock."

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity. Hastings emphasized that every district in Illinois has thousands of residents who depend on SNAP.

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Hastings secures $250,000 grant for Easterseals Academy’s Tinley Park campus

TINLEY PARK — During a visit to the Easterseals Academy Tinley Park campus, State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced the allocation of a $250,000 state grant to help fund critical roof repairs at the school, which serves children with autism and other disabilities.

“Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford plays a vital role in the lives of children and families in our community,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “These students deserve a safe, comfortable learning environment, and this grant is a step toward ensuring that happens. I'm proud to help deliver the resources needed to preserve and enhance the incredible work being done here every day.”

The funding, awarded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will allow Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford to address long-standing infrastructure needs and ensure the continued safety and functionality of its Tinley Park facility.

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Hastings reacts to Illinois’ State Farm lawsuit

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) released the following statement in response to Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s lawsuit against State Farm, which claims the firm is breaking the law by refusing to turn over homeowners’ insurance data to the state for regulatory examination:

“The attorney general’s lawsuit against State Farm highlights something we have all been talking about: transparency and fairness. Homeowners deserve to know why rates are going up and whether they are being treated fairly.

“That is why I am filing legislation that brings together the work we have done over the past ten months to strengthen oversight, improve transparency and rebuild trust between consumers and insurers.

“At the end of the day, transparency builds trust, and that is what keeps our communities strong.”