Hastings advances measure to make schools safer

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is sponsoring a measure that would ensure schools have standardized plans and procedures in the event of a safety threat.

“Across the country we are seeing a rise in emergency events at schools,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “It is concerning to see that there is no standardized procedure for schools to follow if an emergency occurs.”

Senate Bill 2057 would require the State Board of Education to provide school districts with standards for a school district's threat assessment procedures. The bill would allow ISBE and the Office of the State Fire Marshall to create new rules that guide school districts, private schools, and first responders on how to develop threat assessment procedures, rapid entry response plans, and cardiac emergency response plans.

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Hastings calls for decisive action after governor’s budget address

SPRINGFIELD — In response to Governor JB Pritzker’s budget address today, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) issued the following statement:

“Our state’s budget must be grounded in reality and prepared for the challenges ahead. With shifting priorities at the federal level, Illinois is likely to face reduced or delayed federal funding, making it essential that we act decisively.”

“We must assess and safeguard critical programs, ensuring they remain functional even under adverse conditions. Failure to address this now will result in financial strain and disruptions that could impact our most vulnerable communities. Responsible planning today will help us protect essential services, stabilize our economy, and create a resilient future for Illinois.”

Hastings calls for comprehensive study on water access and sustainability in the south suburbs

SPRINGFIELD- State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced his proposal for the creation of the Chicago Water Contracts Transparency Study, a critical initiative aimed at improving water sustainability and equity for the South Suburbs.

With many suburban municipalities over-relying on the City of Chicago for water access, Hastings is calling for a comprehensive study to assess current water distribution agreements, the impact of rising water rates, and explore alternative options for local control of water resources.

“Water sustainability may seem like a distant issue, but it’s only one or two generations away,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “In 50 years, my children will be addressing the public policy regarding water in our communities. We must act now to ensure that our water supply remains reliable, affordable, and fairly distributed for generations to come.”

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Hastings introduces legislation to protect Illinois families from unfair insurance rate hikes

SPRINGFIELD — To increase transparency and limit excessive rate hikes, State Senator Michael E. Hastings introduced legislation aimed to reduce the financial burden of rising homeowners and auto insurance premiums.

"Illinois families are facing unfair and sudden premium increases with little warning,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “These measures will ensure insurance companies are transparent about rate changes and prevent unjustified hikes.”

Senate Bill 268 would create the Insurance Rate Fairness and Consumer Protection Act. The measure looks to require insurance companies to seek approval from the Illinois Department of Insurance for any rate increases, with a cap of 15% per year unless justified. Further, non-relevant factors such as credit scores and occupation could no longer be used to set premiums.

Senate Bill 269 would create the Insurance Rate Transparency Act and require home and auto insurers to disclose year-over-year premium changes on their websites and in renewal notices, providing clear explanations for rate increases.

Hastings is committed to ensuring Illinois families are not burdened by unpredictable insurance costs and plans to work over the coming months to pass the legislation.