Hastings supports updating online harassment law

SPRINGFIELD — In Illinois, law enforcement officers and prosecutors who charge suspects accused of harassment need updates to the law to reflect today’s use of technology. State Senator Michael E. Hastings is supporting legislation to reflect the realities of how offenses are being committed in present day.

“The world is changing fast and we must keep up,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “There is some really nasty stuff online that has a tangible impact on people. We need to make it clear that in Illinois you cannot hide behind a screen and threaten people or their families.”

Senate Bill 2741 is an initiative of Kane County State's Attorney Jamie Mosser and Detective Rich Wistocki, whose organizations see how the nature of harassment has changed with technology. To prosecute offenders who use these tools, the bill would remove the requirement that content must be of a sexual nature.

Additionally, it would lay out how violators would be charged for harassment by telephone and by electronic devices. Making comments, suggestions or remarks intended to cause significant emotional distress or threats of injury to the recipient or any of their family or household members would be considered violations.

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Hastings fights for stronger oversight of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans to protect Illinois consumers

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is speaking out on the need for stronger oversight of Buy-Now-Pay-Later programs, a fast-growing form of short-term credit that allows consumers to pay for purchases in installments.

“These programs may seem convenient at first, but they can carry hidden costs, unexpected fees and financial risks that often go unnoticed until it is too late,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Young people, low-income families and those on fixed incomes are especially vulnerable. Illinois consumers deserve clear information, protections and accountability from lenders.”

Hastings advanced legislation that would require BNPL lenders to register with the state and provide full disclosures about repayment terms, interest rates and potential fees while maintaining fair and transparent dispute or refund processes. The legislation also would ensure consumers understand the total cost of borrowing and can make informed financial decisions.

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Hastings advances measure to simplify subscription cancellations

SPRINGFIELD — Subscription services often make canceling an active subscription difficult and convoluted in order to make customers give up or forget canceling the service. To combat this practice, State Senator Michael E. Hastings advanced legislation designed to protect Illinois consumers from hidden fees and confusing subscription contracts.

“Everyone knows this feeling ─ you decide it’s finally time to cancel that subscription you haven’t used in months, expecting it to be a simple press of a button,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Suddenly, you need a password from 2007, your childhood pet’s middle name and the patience of a saint just to ensure you don’t keep getting charged for something you don’t want.”

Senate Bill 3562 would give consumers clear, retainable disclosures before subscriptions are activated. It would also guarantee that cancellations can be completed easily—online or in the same way the consumer signed up—and would ensure companies provide timely notice for any price increases or changes to contract terms.

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