Hastings champions school safety with mobile panic alert bill

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is spearheading legislation aimed at improving emergency response in Illinois schools using mobile panic alert systems. The bill seeks to provide schools with modern tools to quickly alert first responders in the event of a crisis.

“Every second matters in an emergency,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Schools need access to reliable technology to protect students, teachers and staff while connecting seamlessly with law enforcement and emergency services.”

Senate Bill 2948 would direct the Illinois State Board of Education, in consultation with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Illinois State Police, to conduct market research and develop statewide standards for mobile panic alert systems. Schools and districts that implement these systems would also be eligible for grant funding to support adoption and ongoing use.

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Hastings files bill to protect homeowners from post-storm contractor scams

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings filed legislation aimed at protecting Illinois homeowners from deceptive and high pressure contractor practices that often follow severe weather and natural disasters.

“After a major storm, families are overwhelmed and trying to protect their homes, not negotiate contracts on their front lawn,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This legislation would give homeowners breathing room and make sure bad actors cannot take advantage of people when they are at their most vulnerable.”

The bill would modify the Home Repair and Remodeling Act to curb common post-storm tactics, including promises to waive insurance deductibles and aggressive door-to-door solicitation. Hastings said homeowners are too often pressured into quick decisions at a time when they should be focused on safety, insurance claims and getting their lives back on track.

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Hastings introduces legislation to strengthen cannabis safety and prevent child access

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings introduced Senate Bill 2866, legislation designed to strengthen safety requirements for cannabis products and reduce the risk of accidental ingestion by children.

“While cannabis is legal for adult use in Illinois, we must continue to take responsible steps to protect children,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This legislation focuses on education, visibility and access to proper storage so families have the tools they need to keep their kids safe.”

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Hastings announces over $239,000 investment in Bicentennial Park project

FRANKFORT — Thanks to strong support from Michael E. Hastings, the Olympia Fields Park District received over $239,000 from the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant to help continue ongoing improvements at Bicentennial Park.

“Last year we started with a $75,000 investment to get this project started,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “This continued investment comes as great news to the residents of Olympia Fields looking for a safe and accessible place to gather and enjoy for years to come.”

OSLAD is a cost-sharing program between state and local governments that helps communities fund land acquisition and development for parks and outdoor recreation projects. It’s become one of the most popular grant programs in Illinois. Since its establishment, OSLAD has awarded $675 million for park projects throughout Illinois.

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