Hastings reacts to Illinois’ State Farm lawsuit

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) released the following statement in response to Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s lawsuit against State Farm, which claims the firm is breaking the law by refusing to turn over homeowners’ insurance data to the state for regulatory examination:

“The attorney general’s lawsuit against State Farm highlights something we have all been talking about: transparency and fairness. Homeowners deserve to know why rates are going up and whether they are being treated fairly.

“That is why I am filing legislation that brings together the work we have done over the past ten months to strengthen oversight, improve transparency and rebuild trust between consumers and insurers.

“At the end of the day, transparency builds trust, and that is what keeps our communities strong.”

Hastings announces $250,000 state grant for cancer treatment technology at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields

OLYMPIA FIELDS — State Senator Michael E. Hastings toured the cancer treatment center at Franciscan Health Olympia Fields, meeting with doctors, nurses and staff before announcing a $250,000 state capital improvement grant to support the purchase of a state-of-the-art linear accelerator for cancer treatment.

“With cancer rates on the rise, our families deserve the very best care close to home,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “I have had many friends, neighbors and residents of the south suburbs die from cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer — you name it. Our residents deserve the best treatment and technology in our neighborhood.”

The $250,000 grant, administered through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will contribute to the hospital’s purchase of a linear accelerator, which delivers hyper-localized radiation therapy for cancer patients while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissue. The announcement comes during Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a reminder that cancer touches nearly every family and that access to advanced treatment can mean the difference between life and death.

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Hastings visits Cancer Support Center during Breast Cancer Awareness Month

MOKENA — State Senator Michael E. Hastings visited The Cancer Support Center in Mokena this week in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Hastings emphasized the importance of community resources in the fight against cancer, noting that nearly every family has been touched by the disease in some way.

“Everyone, in one form or fashion, has been affected by cancer or knows someone who has,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Having the proper resources can provide both comfort and guidance during the journey of recovery.”

Hastings, a longtime supporter of The Cancer Support Center, praised the organization for its mission of providing free programs, counseling and care to individuals diagnosed with cancer and to their families during their time of need. He extended special thanks to Stephanie Owens, outreach coordinator for The Cancer Support Center, for her leadership and dedication in ensuring families receive the help they need.

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Hastings announces $75,000 grant for Olympia Fields Bicentennial Park renovations

OLYMPIA FIELDS — State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced that the Olympia Fields Park District has been awarded a $75,000 state grant to begin renovations at Bicentennial Park.

“Bicentennial Park is an anchor for the Olympia Fields community,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This investment will help modernize the park and ensure that families have a safe, accessible place to gather and enjoy for years to come.”

The funds will support early-stage improvements as part of a broader redevelopment plan. The Park District is also applying for an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development grant to complete additional upgrades at the site.

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