Original News, Features & Opinion on Chicago, Illinois and America
Hastings on Illinois advancing Alyssa’s Law: ‘School Safety Isn’t abstract — it’s personal’ RICHTON PARK — State Senator Michael E. Hastings joined Mayor Rick Reinbold and other local officials, educators and advocates on Friday August 14, 2026, at Richton Square School to highlight the recent signing of Alyssa’s Law, legislation Hastings co-authored to strengthen school…
Hastings landmark insurance reform signed into law Capping off years of advocacy and negotiations, State Senator Michael E. Hastings championed a law that will protect Illinois homeowners from unfair rate hikes similar to those endured in the last few years. “For too long Illinoisans have been hit with rate increases that far outpace inflation and…
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Hastings commends local disaster proclamations after July 27 storms State Senator Michael E. Hastings today thanked Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant for issuing disaster proclamations covering areas impacted by the severe storms that struck the south suburbs and eastern Will County on Monday, July 27. “I want to…
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Hastings hosts Summer Soiree Thursday August 6, 2026 Old Plank Trail Frankfort Please join Senator Michael E. Hastings for a Summer Soirée on Thursday, August 6, at Old Plank Trail Tavern in Frankfort. Throw on your summer attire and enjoy an evening with friends and supporters as we gather to support Senator Hastings and his…
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Hastings encourages municipalities, park districts to apply for IDNR grant State Senator Michael E. Hastings is urging park districts and municipalities in the 19th District to apply for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant. “Some places become more than parks, they become gathering places where memories are made,…
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Hastings’ new law provides oversight of predatory Buy-Now-Pay-Later loans Illinois consumers have seen that a rapid expansion of Buy-Now-Pay-Later loan services 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. In response, State Senator Michael E. Hastings passed a…
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Hastings school safety measure “Alyssa’s Law” passes Senate State Senator Michael E. Hastings is building on previous school safety legislation by passing a measure that would enable the use of mobile panic alert systems in Illinois schools. The bill seeks to provide schools with modern tools to quickly alert first responders in the event of…
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Hastings leads effort to expand virtual dental care To expand access to dental care, State Senator Michael E. Hastings is carrying legislation designed to ensure patients can access virtual dental care safely while maintaining strong professional standards. “Whether it is because of a disability or lack of access to transportation, people often struggle to make…
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