Dear friend,
From rising electricity rates and housing costs to serious concerns about government transparency, families across Illinois are facing real challenges. In this update, I’m sharing how I’m working to protect your budget, support stronger communities, and ensure state government is focused on the issues that matter most. I’m also excited to highlight our Children’s Summer Reading Program and Back to School Drive — two great ways we’re investing in local families this season.
Yours truly,
State Senator Darby Hills, 26th District
Children’s Summer Reading Program – Ready, Set, Read!
I invite all students entering 1st through 12th grade to participate in the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge! There is only a few weeks left to participate! Read 8 books by August 8th and earn an official certificate from the Illinois Senate — plus, you’ll be invited to a fun ice cream social celebration!
To get started, visit www.senatordarbyhills.com/events/
Back to School Drive!
It’s time to gear up for back to school! I’m teaming up with Barrington Children’s Charities to collect backpacks and school supplies for students in need right here in the 26th District. If you’re out shopping, grab a few extras and help us make sure every student starts the year ready to learn! Drop-offs are open now through August 8.
For more information, visit www.senatordarbyhills.com/events/
Illinois Ranks Last for Financial Transparency
In a recently released report, Illinois was dead last in the country concerning financial transparency when compared to all 50 states. Researchers with Truth in Accounting, who put out the report, claim Illinois’ ranking can be highlighted by the state’s delay in publishing its fiscal year 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports. That report was meant to be published by June 30, 2024, but the Illinois Comptroller’s Office has only released an “interim” version.
The Annual Comprehensive Financial Reports are meant to be one of the most accurate ways to view the state’s financial outlook. While the 2023 report remains incomplete, the state’s 2022 report included a disclaimer of opinion, meaning auditors were unable to ensure the financial statements were free of material misstatements. This raises further questions about the state’s fiscal accountability.
This report serves as a clear reminder of the importance of financial transparency in earning the trust of taxpayers. I believe Illinois families deserve honest, timely, and accurate financial reporting from their state government. Without it, it’s difficult to make responsible budget decisions or plan for a stable financial future.
I remain committed to accountability and believe that restoring trust in state finances is a critical step toward building a stronger, more stable Illinois for the families who call it home.
Fighting for Relief as Energy Costs Rise
This summer, many families opened their utility bills and felt the hit—electricity rates have spiked across Illinois, stretching household budgets even further. Whether you’re trying to keep your home cool or your small business running, the cost of staying powered shouldn’t come with this kind of burden.
These increases aren’t just seasonal—they’re tied to long-term problems with Illinois’ energy grid and years of policy decisions that have made it harder to generate and deliver affordable electricity.
That’s why I’m working to deliver real relief. I’m supporting legislation that puts affordability and reliability first—removing roadblocks to new energy projects and making sure the state is doing everything it can to keep prices stable.
If you’ve been impacted by the recent rate hikes, click here for a helpful FAQ on ComEd’s electric rate changes.
Every family deserves access to affordable, reliable power—and I’ll keep working to make sure that happens.
Illinois Sends Search and Rescue Team to Texas
In the aftermath of the deadly flooding in Texas over the Fourth of July weekend, an Illinois Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team has been deployed by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS). Illinois is one of around two dozen states offering aid to Texas.
Thirty-nine rescuers from various fire departments are part of the team sent to Texas under a mutual aid agreement among states, in place since 1996. This mutual aid agreement has led to thousands of aid deployments after hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other disasters.
The Illinois team departed on July 11, 2025, and is expected to remain there for up to two weeks.