Hastings measure brings residents one step closer to obtaining mobile IDs

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans with a valid driver’s license or ID may soon be able to request a mobile version of identification from the Secretary of State, thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

“Embracing digital solutions is crucial for making state services more accessible and efficient,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “By allowing residents to carry a digital version of their driver’s license or ID card on their phone, we are streamlining daily activities that require identification, such as traffic stops and age verification.”

A key feature of Hasting’s measure is the requirement that mobile driver’s license and ID’s use an electronic credential system – such as a barcode system – to certify there is no requirement for individuals to surrender possession of their mobile device to the requesting party. This ensures that residents maintain control and privacy over their mobile devices at all times.

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Hastings passes legislation to fight catalytic convertor theft

SPRINGFIELD – There may soon be a law on the books to provide vehicle owners with a defense against the rise in theft of catalytic convertors in Illinois thanks to efforts from State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

“This initiative provides vehicle owners with another line of defense to make it difficult for those stealing catalytic converters to sell and profit off the illegal sale of these parts,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Undergoing the process of filing an insurance claim and replacing catalytic converters is an unnecessary burden on drivers.”

Hastings’ measure, House Bill 4589, would require recyclable metal dealers to keep records of the vehicle identification number of the vehicle from which the catalytic converter was removed and any numbers, bar codes, stickers, or other unique markings of the catalytic convertor.

It would also require them to obtain and retain a copy of the certificate of title or uniform invoice showing the seller's ownership of the vehicle in transactions involving catalytic convertors.

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Hastings works to ease childcare shortages for military families

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois military families may soon have an easier time finding childcare, thanks to State Senator Michael E. Hastings.

“Our brave military personnel work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and it is imperative that they know their children are well taken care of at home,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Removing red tape and streamlining the licensure process for our nation’s heroes will help speed up the licensure process for daycare homes serving these brave families.”

Hastings passed House Bill 5596, which would create an exemption from licensure for daycare homes and group daycare homes serving children of military personnel if the daycare is located on a military base or federal property and is certified as a child development program by a brand of the U.S. Department of Defense or the U.S Coast Guard.

The measure is an initiative of Blue Star Families to help assist in meeting childcare demands of military communities in Illinois.

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Hastings passes legislation to provide first responders with mental health care

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Michael E. Hastings passed a measure to ensure municipal and county first responders receive free mental health insurance coverage.

“We owe it to these brave individuals to provide them with the support and resources they need to heal and recover from the daily trauma they continuously endure in the line of duty,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “It is not only morally imperative but also cost effective. By addressing mental health issues early on, we can prevent more serious and costly consequences down the line.”

Senate Bill 3538 would require any self-insured county or municipality that provides health insurance coverage to first responders to include mental health counseling coverage without imposing any cost-sharing requirements on patients.

Hastings believes that untreated mental health conditions can lead to increase absenteeism, reduced productivity and higher rates of turnover among first responders.

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