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.”
FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is encouraging people to apply for the fifth round of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program provides training opportunities, expands the talent pipeline and boosts diversity in the construction industry and building trades.
“The pre-apprenticeship program continues to have great success opening new pathways into the trades for those looking to work hard,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Whether you’re someone who is unsure what career path to take or in an underrepresented community, this program can help you take the next step.”
FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings issued a strong statement Friday condemning State Farm’s recently announced 27.2% premium increase on Illinois homeowners, calling it a breach of trust and further evidence that Illinois must take action to reform its insurance system.
“For over six months, we worked with the insurance industry in good faith to address rising premiums,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We were told that rates were stabilizing. Weeks later, State Farm announced one of the largest rate hikes in recent history. That is not transparency — it is a slap in the face to consumers and lawmakers alike.”
Hastings, who serves as chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, has introduced legislation that would stop insurance companies from quietly passing the costs of out-of-state disasters — such as hurricanes or wildfires — onto Illinois policyholders without proper justification. His proposal requires clear actuarial evidence and public disclosure.
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