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.”

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.