Hastings: ‘Storm chasers’ have no place in Illinois

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

“In light of some tragic storms in the area, we need to protect Illinois’ residents,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “There were people in Kankakee County who lost everything and not even a full day later they had contractors showing up trying to make a deal on-the-spot. After what we saw in Kankakee, these ‘storm chasers’ have no place in Illinois.”

Senate Bill 3029 would prohibit a contractor from offering home repair or remodeling services while a loss-producing event, such as a fire or storm, is occurring at the premises; while the fire department or emergency personnel are engaged at the premises; or between the hours of 7 p.m. and 8 a.m. The measure would still allow consumers to initiate solicitation with contractors during these scenarios.

Read more …

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.

Read more …

In the Loop with Sasha-Ann Simons — Illinois and Trump administration tussle over prediction markets

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.

Read more …