Threat assessment plans for schools across Illinois

As families recover from the aftermath of the Minnesota school shooting that claimed the lives of two children and left several injured, school safety is more important than ever. State Senator Michael E. Hastings took some time with ABC News Channel 20 to discuss Senate Bill 2057's impact.

Hastings announces $75,000 state grant to upgrade New Lenox Township Fire Protection District communication systems

NEW LENOX — State Senator Michael E. Hastings, a U.S. Army combat veteran, announced Tuesday that the New Lenox Township Fire Protection District has been awarded a $75,000 grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The funding will support an upgrade to the district’s two-way communication systems, allowing the 9-1-1 dispatch center to directly communicate calls to stations while confirming that calls are both transmitted and received. This improvement ensures accountability, increases efficiency, and helps first responders deliver timely emergency response.

“This investment will strengthen the backbone of our emergency response system,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “When a 911 call comes in, every second matters. By upgrading communication technology, we’re making sure our firefighters and paramedics get the information they need without delay, so they can continue protecting families in New Lenox.”

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Hastings meets with New Lenox Fire Protection District on recruitment and emergency response needs

NEW LENOX — State Senator Michael E. Hastings met recently with leaders and firefighters from the New Lenox Fire Protection District to address workforce recruitment, paramedic training, and the district’s equipment needs to keep pace with a growing community.

Hastings, a Bronze Star veteran and chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, emphasized the importance of investing in emergency response systems that directly impact suburban residents. Discussions included strategies to expand recruitment and testing, as well as partnerships with hospitals and colleges to strengthen paramedic education pipelines.

“Firefighters are the backbone of our community’s safety,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “When residents dial 911, they expect and deserve a first-class response. That means making sure our fire protection districts have the personnel, training, and modern equipment to protect every family in New Lenox and across the South Suburbs.”

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Hastings visits CTF Illinois in Orland Park

ORLAND PARK — State Senator Michael E. Hastings visited CTF Illinois this past month, one of the state’s largest nonprofit organizations serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

“Everyone is human. Everyone has value. Everyone has a purpose,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “CTF Illinois embodies these principles every day through their mission, compassion and commitment to dignity and inclusion.”

During the visit, Hastings met with staff and participants to learn more about the programs and services that help individuals with developmental disabilities live full, meaningful lives. He highlighted the importance of community providers in creating opportunities for all to thrive.

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