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.”

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.

TINLEY PARK- Thanks to the efforts of State Senator Michael E. Hastings, the Tinley Park-Park District began its demolition of the former Tinley Park Mental Health Center and Howe Development Center. After sitting vacant for over a decade, the park district will transform the site into a brand new recreation center for its residents.

“Abandoned facilities like the one here are not only an eyesore of unusable space, but also open the door for potential health risks for our community,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “The speed and efficiency at which this project has moved means we are doing right by our residents.”

In February 2024, Hastings led a law to allow the park district to purchase the 280-acre plot for $1. A $15 million grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity was also secured by Hastings to help fund the restoration. The plan for the property includes athletic fields, track and field facilities, a domed sports complex and open recreational space. With the environmental cleanup complete, the park district moves toward demolishing the site that has been abandoned since 2012.

To learn more about this project, visit the park district’s website.

FRANKFORT — Two local libraries are set to receive over $35,000 in combined literacy grants to grow and enhance their programs, thanks to support from Michael E. Hastings.

“Community-based literacy programs provide an opportunity for residents to continue learning every day,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This funding will build on our work in Illinois to promote literacy, expand access to adult education and strengthen opportunities for lifelong, family-centered learning.”

The latest round of funding from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias includes nearly $22 million for library services and $6 million to support literacy programs throughout the state.

Two libraries in the district Hastings represents will receive a total of $36,580 to support adult and family literacy programs that assist learners in enhancing their reading, writing, math and English-language skills. This includes $23,000 for Matteson Area Public Library District and $13,580 for the Richton Park Public Library District.