ISDC

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Hastings files legislation to combat ‘cost shifting’ practices in insurance rate setting

Details: Tuesday, September 23, 2025 12:06 PM

SPRINGFIELD — In the wake of insurance rate hikes throughout Illinois, State Senator Michael E. Hastings has filed legislation aiming to prohibit insurance companies from engaging in “cost shifting” and to strengthen protections for Illinois consumers against unfair insurance rates.

“Cost shifting is fundamentally unfair,” said Hastings (D-Frankfort). “Illinois families should not be footing the bill for losses in other states. This bill makes sure premiums reflect the real risks here in Illinois, not the costs of events thousands of miles away.”

Cost shifting is the practice of passing the costs of out-of-state catastrophes, such as hurricanes, wildfires or floods, onto Illinois policyholders. Hastings’ measure is designed to address this practice by ensuring residents are not forced to subsidize disasters outside the state’s borders.

Koehler welcomes OPmobility to Normal, 81 new full-time jobs coming to Central Illinois

Details: Friday, September 19, 2025 12:08 PM

NORMAL – State Senator Dave Koehler welcomed the announcement that OPmobility will establish its first Illinois facility in Normal to assemble bumpers for Rivian’s R2, bringing new job opportunities and another critical investment to the Central Illinois region.

“This announcement underscores the strength of Central Illinois as a hub for innovation and manufacturing,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “OPmobility’s investment will create good-paying jobs and further establish our region as a leader in the clean energy and automotive sectors.”

OPmobility’s capital investment in Rivian’s new supplier park is supported by the Senate Democrat-backed Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) program, which is designed to attract clean energy jobs to Illinois while supporting the state’s climate goals. As a result of the company’s investment in Central Illinois and the creation of over 80 new jobs, the move includes a REV Illinois tax credit tied to these commitments.

Villivalam invites residents to a transit town hall

Details: Tuesday, September 16, 2025 10:46 AM

CHICAGO — State Senator Ram Villivalam is hosting a State of Transit town hall on Sept. 20 alongside local elected officials to share updates about the state of transit in Illinois.

“Public transit is an essential part of our communities – getting residents to where they need to go. Without this critical service, many of our neighbors will not be able to get to school, go to their job or even receive the health care they need,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “It is imperative that we continue to talk with residents and provide updates on what we have done to create a world-class public transit system for Illinoisans.”

The transit town hall will be held Saturday, Sept. 20 at noon at Harry S. Truman College – McKeon Lobby, located at 1145 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago. Villivalam is hosting the event alongside State Senators Sara Feigenholtz, Graciela Guzmán and Mike Simmons, and Alders Angela Clay, Maria Hadden, Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, Matt Martin and Andre Vasquez, where they will provide updates about transit, answer residents’ questions and hear about how transit is essential in their communities.

Statement from the Latino Caucus on ICE activity

Details: Monday, September 08, 2025 02:41 PM

CHICAGO — The Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus released the following statement regarding ICE activity in Chicagoland:

“The federal administration’s decision to ramp up ICE activity in the Chicago area is divisive and appears to be a pretext for potentially deploying the National Guard. Our message remains clear: neither is welcome here.

“The timing of these actions is particularly troubling, as Latino families across Illinois celebrate the independence of several nations during September in addition to Hispanic heritage month. This calculated strategy targeting our community reflects a disturbing pattern by this administration — using the guise of law enforcement to justify harmful actions.

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Member News

Loughran Cappel law enhances efficiency by merging Southeast Joliet Sanitary District to city operations

SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel will streamline local municipal services, allowing the city of Joliet to absorb the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District. “Joliet is well equipped to ensure a smooth transition between th...

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Peters’ law reinforces DCFS as family support agency

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State commission to strengthen public health preparedness established under Morrison law

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Edly-Allen law creates certified therapy dog crisis response program

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Halpin bill to protect local auctioneers signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s effort to protect rural auctioneers was signed into law Friday. “We are working to protect local and rural auctioneers from unregulated online auctions and give bidders peace of mind when they make their tran...

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