FRANKFORT – In order to streamline Illinois’ vaccination process, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) joined colleagues to call for the implementation of a database that would support county health departments, preventing the waste of vaccines.

Hastings, along with several Senate colleagues, made this request of Governor JB Pritzker via a joint letter.

“We know that our vaccine supply is not remotely close to adequate at the moment,” Hastings said. “This makes the distribution of every single dose available all the more critical. All we are seeking is further cooperation between the State and county health departments to implement a statewide database system dedicated to improving the distribution process.”

The proposed database would allow for nearby health care providers to be notified when there are extra vaccines available that need to be administered quickly. This would simplify the redistribution process, give eligible individuals the chance to receive their vaccination and prevent the state’s supply from expiring.

“I continue to be thankful to Governor Pritzker for his leadership, and I recognize he and his team are doing everything possible to ensure the vaccination process moves along smoothly,” Hastings said.

FRANKFORT – Eighteen South Suburban businesses received Business Interruption Grant money, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) announced Thursday.

“With COVID-19 positivity and death rates increasing, Governor Pritzker has put mitigation measures in place for communities across the state. As a result, South Suburban business owners have had to endure multiple shutdowns,” Hastings said. “It is essential that the state provides help, and I am incredibly appreciative that our businesses that have borne the brunt of this pandemic were prioritized in this round of grants."

Businesses were awarded $5,000-$150,000 grants to help cover the costs of payroll, rent, utilities and other working capital during the time they have experienced interruptions due to the pandemic.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity awarded the grants this week, as part of the second round of BIG Grants. However, applications will remain open until all of the funding is spent.

“I have spoken to numerous recipients of these grants, which I voted this past session to fully fund, and they have expressed to me how helpful the money was in helping their businesses stay afloat. From Tom Kelly’s Pub in New Lenox to Flavor in Richton Park, I have seen firsthand the difference these grants have made in the lives of our business owners and their employees.”

The BIG program is the largest state-run economic support program formed in response to the financial losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are available on the DCEO’s website.

FRANKFORT – Following the announcement that Region 7 mitigation measures were lifted, State Senator Michael E. Hastings (D-Frankfort) released the following statement:
 
“Three weeks ago, enhanced mitigation measures were placed on Will County and Region 7. Our local businesses and municipalities were forced into an extreme and dire situation. With the hard work and discipline of Will County residents, the COVID-19 infection rate has decreased to a point where the enhanced mitigation measures will be lifted effective at 5:00 p.m. this evening. 

“I want to thank our businesses and chambers of commerce for their feedback and involvement throughout this process. Listening to our local leaders is essential to effective leadership. For those businesses still struggling, I encourage you to visit the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity’s website for information on the Business Interruption Grant program. 

“Moreover, I could not be more proud of our people for coming together and taking proper precautions.  As we move forward, our local businesses cannot afford another setback. We must remain vigilant for the sake of economic recovery and public health.”