Hastings: A major step forward in modernizing our state

SPRINGFIELD ─ Illinois is entering a new era of innovation. This week, Illinois officially launched digital driver’s licenses and state identification cards, giving residents a secure, modern and convenient way to carry their credentials on their smartphones. As the chief sponsor and author of the legislation that made this advancement possible, State Senator Michael E. Hastings is proud to see this vision become a reality for Illinois families.

“This is about building a smarter, safer and more convenient future for the people of Illinois,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “We set a bold goal, and through strong collaboration and leadership, we delivered.”

With this launch, Illinois residents with an iPhone can now add their state ID or driver’s license to the Apple Wallet. Support for Google and Samsung devices will follow in 2026.

Digital IDs offer:

• Greater convenience: Identity verification at airports, businesses and events becomes faster and easier.
• Stronger privacy: Share only what is necessary, such as verifying age without revealing your address.
• Enhanced security: Your mobile ID stays encrypted and under your control at all times.

This digital credential serves as a companion to your physical ID during the transition period.

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Hastings insurance reform legislation passes Senate

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings advanced legislation designed to protect homeowners from excessive insurance rate increases and ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in Illinois homeowners insurance.

"With this legislation, we are putting fairness and accountability back into the system," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Here is what this means for Illinois homeowners — no more surprise renewals, no more fine print, no more ‘gotcha’ letters in the mail.”

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Hastings announces legislation to ensure fair homeowners insurance rates for Illinois families

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings was joined at a press conference Wednesday by Senators Willie Preston, Paul Faraci, Meg Loughran Cappel, Christopher Belt and Doris Turner to announce new legislation designed to protect homeowners from excessive insurance rate increases and ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in Illinois homeowners insurance.

"When you open that renewal notice from your insurance company and your premium has gone up 30% or more, it is like stepping on a Lego at six in the morning — you didn’t do anything wrong, but you are definitely feeling it," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Across Illinois, homeowners insurance premiums have jumped 20% to 30% over the past year. Our neighbors are asking themselves, 'What did I do to cause this? I did not file a claim. I did not move. I did not change a thing, but my rates still went up.' And they are right to ask that question.”

For too long, Hastings said, the deck has been stacked in favor of large insurance companies that have turned inflation into a corporate get-rich scheme.

"Life is not always fair. You fix the leaky faucet and the dishwasher quits. Your kid throws up a game winner and it smashes the neighbor's window,” said Hastings. “Life is not always fair, but that is exactly why we have to be.

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Hastings named to Advisory Committee for incoming Cook County Chief Judge Charlie Beach

CHICAGO — State Senator Michael E. Hastings has been selected to serve on the Advisory Committee supporting Judge Charlie Beach as he transitions into his role as Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

“It is a tremendous honor to be asked to serve on this Advisory Committee,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Judge Charlie Beach is a leader of integrity and vision who has earned the trust of his colleagues and our community. I am proud to call Charlie a friend, and I know that under his leadership, Cook County’s courts will continue to uphold the highest standards of justice.”

The Advisory Committee brings together judges, justice partners, community leaders, and policy experts to help shape early administrative and operational priorities under Chief Judge Beach’s leadership. The transition structure is designed to reflect the values of good governance, open communication, data driven decision making and integrity, ensuring that the new administration begins with clear priorities and inclusive input from across the judicial system.

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