SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings was joined at a press conference Wednesday by Senators Willie Preston, Paul Faraci, Meg Loughran Cappel, Christopher Belt and Doris Turner to announce new legislation designed to protect homeowners from excessive insurance rate increases and ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in Illinois homeowners insurance.

"When you open that renewal notice from your insurance company and your premium has gone up 30% or more, it is like stepping on a Lego at six in the morning — you didn’t do anything wrong, but you are definitely feeling it," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Across Illinois, homeowners insurance premiums have jumped 20% to 30% over the past year. Our neighbors are asking themselves, 'What did I do to cause this? I did not file a claim. I did not move. I did not change a thing, but my rates still went up.' And they are right to ask that question.”

For too long, Hastings said, the deck has been stacked in favor of large insurance companies that have turned inflation into a corporate get-rich scheme.

"Life is not always fair. You fix the leaky faucet and the dishwasher quits. Your kid throws up a game winner and it smashes the neighbor's window,” said Hastings. “Life is not always fair, but that is exactly why we have to be.

CHICAGO — State Senator Michael E. Hastings has been selected to serve on the Advisory Committee supporting Judge Charlie Beach as he transitions into his role as Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County.

“It is a tremendous honor to be asked to serve on this Advisory Committee,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Judge Charlie Beach is a leader of integrity and vision who has earned the trust of his colleagues and our community. I am proud to call Charlie a friend, and I know that under his leadership, Cook County’s courts will continue to uphold the highest standards of justice.”

The Advisory Committee brings together judges, justice partners, community leaders, and policy experts to help shape early administrative and operational priorities under Chief Judge Beach’s leadership. The transition structure is designed to reflect the values of good governance, open communication, data driven decision making and integrity, ensuring that the new administration begins with clear priorities and inclusive input from across the judicial system.

FRANKFORT — State Senator Michael E. Hastings is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"This is not a partisan issue. It is a human issue," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Families in every corner of our state, both urban and rural, Republican and Democrat, depend on these benefits to put food on the table. We must come together to ensure that no one goes hungry because of political gridlock."

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity. Hastings emphasized that every district in Illinois has thousands of residents who depend on SNAP.

TINLEY PARK — During a visit to the Easterseals Academy Tinley Park campus, State Senator Michael E. Hastings announced the allocation of a $250,000 state grant to help fund critical roof repairs at the school, which serves children with autism and other disabilities.

“Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford plays a vital role in the lives of children and families in our community,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “These students deserve a safe, comfortable learning environment, and this grant is a step toward ensuring that happens. I'm proud to help deliver the resources needed to preserve and enhance the incredible work being done here every day.”

The funding, awarded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, will allow Easterseals Serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford to address long-standing infrastructure needs and ensure the continued safety and functionality of its Tinley Park facility.