Welcome to Illinois State Senator Michael Hastings' Legislative Website

Hastings announces disaster assistance available to those impacted by summer storms

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is sharing disaster assistance for those affected by the summer storms. Families and businesses in Will and Cook County may be eligible for recovery assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration as well as waived tax penalties and interest.

“This is an important step toward recovery,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Now we have to make sure the support that comes with it actually reaches the people who were hit the hardest. I will keep working with our local and state governments until it does.”

Residents seeking a waiver of penalties and interest for taxes should send a brief written explanation to the Illinois Department of Revenue regarding why they cannot file timely or pay. They should provide their full name, account number (if using a Social Security number, include only the last four digits), mailing address, and an estimate of when they believe they can file or pay their taxes.

Requests may be submitted electronically to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by postal mail using the address on the return. When submitting by mail, taxpayers should write “Severe Storms - Summer 2026” at the top of the return in red ink and attach or include the explanation for requesting abatement of penalties and interest.

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Hastings virtual dental care expansion signed into law

SPRINGFIELD — To expand access to dental care, State Senator Michael E. Hastings led a new law to ensure patients can access virtual dental care safely while maintaining strong professional standards.

“Dental health is not a luxury, it is a fundamental part of overall health,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Yet, right here in our state, 69 out of 109 counties face full county-wide dentist shortages.”

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Hastings: Local leadership and state action come together to support storm recovery

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings today commended Governor JB Pritzker for issuing a state disaster proclamation for communities devastated by the July 27 storms.

“This is what local leadership and state action look like when they work together,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “After the July 27 storms, our counties stepped up immediately. I toured the damage, met with local officials and residents, and asked the governor to stand with the south suburbs. Today’s disaster proclamation is the result of that work.”

The proclamation follows Hastings’ request that the governor declare the hardest-hit areas a disaster zone, as well as local disaster proclamations issued by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant.

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Alyssa's Law passes in Illinois, requiring mobile panic alert systems in schools