SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings’ proposal to put in place state standards for Illinois school districts when it comes to emergency response and threat assessments was signed into law on Friday.

“When an emergency strikes, people lock in to what they have been trained to do,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Getting this bill signed into law means Illinois is working to be proactive, not reactive, when it comes to the safety of our children.”

Senate Bill 2057 requires the State Board of Education to provide school districts with standards for a school district's threat assessment procedures. The law allows the Illinois State Board of Education 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. The law also gives guidance for school districts notifying parents and the community of threats against a school.

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced today a $7.5 million capital improvement grant to the Frankfort Park District, marking a milestone in the community’s ongoing master plan to enhance and expand recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.

“This is a landmark moment for Frankfort,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “When we invest in our parks, we invest in the quality of life for our families, our seniors, and our children. This new funding ensures that Frankfort continues to grow as a destination for recreation, community gatherings, and healthy living for generations to come.”

The investment, secured through a strong cooperative partnership between Senator Hastings and the Frankfort Park District, will advance the next phase of the district’s master plan, focusing on space optimization and enhancements to Commissioner’s Park.

CHICAGO — State Senator Michael E. Hastings joined fellow Senators Patrick Joyce, Paul Faraci, Meg Loughran Cappel, Michael Porfirio and Michael Halpin for a visit to Rush University Medical Center’s acclaimed Road Home Program, announcing a $1 million investment through the Rebuild Illinois Program administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.

The grant will be used to expand services that provide critical mental health and transitional support to returning veterans and their families. The Road Home Program—nationally recognized for its innovative approach to treating post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other challenges veterans face—offers specialized, no-cost care to military members and their loved ones.

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced today that local schools in the South Suburbs will receive more than $7.2 million in new evidence-based funding as part of the continued implementation of the landmark education funding reform he supported in Springfield.

“This is exactly why I voted to support the evidence-based funding formula,” said Hastings (D–Frankfort). “It ensures that state education dollars are distributed more fairly and equitably, targeting the schools that need the most support. I’m proud to see this investment delivering results right here in our community.”