Friend,
I hope you’re having a wonderful week! I’ve been out in the district connecting with neighbors and hearing firsthand what matters most to our families. Some great opportunities are coming up that I didn’t want you to miss — from a free Virtual Financial Aid Webinar to help students and parents prepare for college, to my next Darby in the District coffee meetup, to new legislation I’m supporting that could provide relief for families struggling with rising utility bills. Keep reading to learn how to join, register, or take advantage of these resources.
As always, my office is here to help if you have questions or need assistance with anything. You can contact us here or call (224)662-4544.
Sincerely,
Senator Darby Hills
Virtual Student Financial Aid Webinar
Headed to college? Don’t miss our free Financial Aid Webinar on Tuesday, Sept. 9 from 6–7 PM! Learn how to navigate the financial aid process, apply for FAFSA or the Illinois Alternative Application, and explore state and federal programs that can help cover college costs. This is a great chance to get your questions answered and set yourself up for success!
You must register to get the link!
Please register for this free seminar by emailing Kim at KJohnson@sgop.ilga.gov
Darby in the District – Stompin Grounds Cafe
We had a wonderful turnout this afternoon for my first Darby in the District at Stompin’ Grounds Cafe in Lake Zurich! I was grateful for the opportunity to connect with community members over a cup of coffee and learn how I can best serve as their voice in Springfield.
My next Darby in the District will be on Tuesday, September 9th from 10AM-11:30AM at Calibré Coffee in South Barrington. Hope to see you there!
New Legislation Seeks to Provide Relief to Middle-Class Illinoisans Struggling with Soaring Utility Bills
In response to the recent spike in electricity rates throughout the entire state, I am co-sponsoring legislation that seeks to provide much-needed relief for Illinois families struggling with rising utility bills.
Senate Bill 2687, also known as the Home Utility Relief Act, creates a Home Utility Rebate Program through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). The program would provide rebates to households with incomes between 100% and 500% of the federal poverty guidelines. These are families who often earn too much to qualify for traditional low-income assistance programs but are still burdened by rapidly rising energy costs.
The measure establishes a $500 million Home Utility Rebate Relief Fund to be used in fiscal years 2026 and 2027. After rebates are issued to qualifying households, any remaining funds may also be made available to certain first-time small business owners.
Families across the state are already struggling to keep up with the higher costs of living and are now being hit with soaring electricity bills.
Protect Our District’s Nature Preserves Against Fires
Hot, dry conditions are putting Central Illinois’ nature preserves and wildlife at risk. With so many beautiful parks and habitats in our district, even a small spark could turn into a fast-moving fire, threatening the wildlife and green spaces we all enjoy.
Firefighters and rangers are ready, but prevention matters. Stay alert, follow fire safety rules, and help protect our natural treasures. A little rain soon would go a long way in keeping these special areas safe for both wildlife and visitors.