It was great being back in the district last week, connecting with the community before heading back to Springfield tomorrow for the final stretch of the session. We have just a little over a month to finish our work before the May 31 deadline.
In the weeks ahead, we’ll review bills from the House and work to pass a responsible state budget. While the Governor has proposed a $56 billion plan that relies on new revenue, I remain focused on transparency and fiscal responsibility, because Illinois families can’t afford higher taxes or more short-term fixes.
Topics below include:
- Recognized 7 Local Libraries During Library Appreciation Week
- Darby’s District Highlight: Lois turned 100!
- Celebrated Earth Day at Pederson Nature Preserve
- Upcoming Property Tax Workshop
- Prescription Drug Drop Off Event
- Diaper Drive Ending Soon!
- Constituents at the Capitol
- Proposed Redistricting Amendment Raises Concerns About Fairness in Illinois
Recognized 7 Local Libraries During Library Appreciation Week
In honor of National Library Week, I had the opportunity to visit several incredible libraries across our district and personally thank the dedicated staff who make them such special places in our communities.
From early learning spaces and hands-on labs to unique programs and resources for all ages, our libraries continue to go above and beyond to serve families, students, and lifelong learners. It was a pleasure to stop by, drop off bagels for the staff, and see firsthand the impact they’re making every day.
Thank you to the amazing teams at Ela Area Public Library, Wauconda Area Public Library, Fremont Public Library, Cook Memorial Public Library, Palatine Library District, Algonquin Area Public Library, and Barrington Area Library for your hard work, innovation, and commitment to keeping our communities connected and inspired.
Darby’s District Highlight: Lois turned 100!
Last week, I had the joy of celebrating a very special milestone with my constituent, Lois Burrow, who just turned 100 years old! It was an honor to present her with a Certificate of Recognition from the Illinois Senate.
Happy 100th birthday, Lois!
Celebrated Earth Day at Pederson Nature Preserve
I joined the Barrington Conservation Trust, Openlands, Prairie State Conservation Coalition, and the Illinois Environmental Council on Wednesday to celebrate Earth Day at the Pederson Nature Preserve in Barrington. Students from Barrington High School also joined us throughout the day to learn about the importance of conversation and help plant trees and other native plants throughout the wetland.
Thank you to all of the many local partners working to protect our natural spaces for future generations!
Upcoming Property Tax Workshop
**Barrington Township Residents Only***
Property taxes don’t have to be confusing — let’s break it down together!
I am proud to support the Barrington Township Assessor’s Office’s Property Tax Workshop, where you can get clear answers and better understand your tax bill.
𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: Wednesday, April 29th, 2026
𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲: 6 PM – 8 PM
𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Village of South Barrington, Rose Hall
30 S. Barrington Road, South Barrington, IL 60010
If you have any questions, you can call Assessor Mike Gentile at 847-381-5632 Ex. 102.
Hope to see you there!
Prescription Drug Drop Off Event
On Saturday, we partnered with Wauconda Township, the Wauconda Police Department, NICASA, and Choose Your Path Coalition to host a Prescription Drug Drop Off Event. We collected a couple hundred pounds of unwanted prescription drugs and medications that will now be disposed of safely.
Constituents at the Capitol
Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with so many incredible and passionate groups! I always value the opportunity to meet with constituents, advocacy groups, and community leaders. Listening to different perspectives and experiences helps shape thoughtful, effective policy.
Thank you to everyone who makes the trip to Springfield to be part of these important conversations.
I always appreciate the chance to sit down with dedicated advocates like Kelly Ditman from the American Lung Association, along with members of her team.
Kelly’s passion and deep knowledge continue to be an incredible resource as we work to better understand the challenges facing those with lung disease and the importance of prevention, clean air, and access to care. From asthma to chronic illness, these are issues that impact families across our communities every day.
Grateful for our ongoing conversations and their continued advocacy on behalf of so many!
Thank you Chris Bauman and the National Independent Venue Association for coming to the Capitol to discuss supporting independent venues and the role they play in our local economies and communities!
Before heading onto the Senate Floor, I was able to meet with Illinois Realtors and talk about housing, market trends, and expanding opportunities for homeownership.
It was great meeting with Jennifer Hamilton, CEO & Christi Rocha, Development Manager of Leyden Family Service and hear about the work they do to support individuals and families in our communities. Thank you for coming to the Capitol!
Proposed Redistricting Amendment Raises Concerns About Fairness in Illinois
A proposed constitutional amendment advancing in the Illinois General Assembly is once again raising concerns about how legislative maps are drawn and whether the process will remain fair and transparent.
The proposal (HJRCA 28) would change how Illinois draws its legislative maps. These changes would weaken important safeguards that are meant to keep the process fair and transparent.
Illinois has already been criticized for gerrymandering, including receiving a failing grade from the Princeton Gerrymandering Project. I believe we should be working to strengthen fairness in map drawing—not make it easier to divide communities or protect political insiders.
At the end of the day, voters should choose their elected officials—not the other way around. I will continue to stand for fair, transparent maps that protect the integrity of our elections.
As always, my office is here to help if you have any questions or need assistance with anything. You can contact us here or call (224)662-4544.
Yours truly,
Senator Darby Hills