Last week we were back at the Capitol and got right to work. I joined my colleagues and domestic violence survivor Dakota Sebring to call for stronger protection for victims and real accountability for abusers. No family should have to wonder if the system will step in before it is too late. Along with that effort, I’m also sharing updates from around the district, upcoming opportunities to connect with my office, available grants, and news about our spring internship program.
This week’s topics include:
- Protecting Victims Against Domestic Violence
- Spring 2026 Internship Opportunity
- Soaring to New Heights Luncheon
- My Office is Coming to Palatine – Traveling Office Hours
- Grants and Funding Available
Protecting Victims Against Domestic Violence
Last week at the Capitol, I joined my colleagues and domestic violence survivor Dakota Sebring to highlight the urgent need to protect victims and hold abusers accountable.
Together, we introduced a legislative package focused on strengthening protections for survivors and increasing accountability for abusers. I’m proud to sponsor two of those bills, SB 3141, which strengthens penalties for violations of orders of protection, civil no contact orders, and no-stalking orders, and SB 3142, which ensures repeat offenders face felony charges instead of continued misdemeanors.
Our goal is simple, protect victims, hold abusers accountable, and give law enforcement and courts the tools they need to intervene before another life is lost. Illinois families deserve a system that takes domestic violence seriously, stands with survivors, and acts before it is too late.
You can watch the full press conference below and read the full press release here.
Spring 2026 Internship Opportunity
I am pleased to announce that we are now accepting applications for our Spring 2026 Internship Program!
Last summer, we had a wonderful group of interns in our district office. It was a great experience getting to work alongside students who were eager to learn, serve their community, and gain real world experience in public service. Seeing their growth and enthusiasm made me even more excited to continue this program.
Please see the flyer below for more information.
Soaring to New Heights Luncheon
Thank you to the Illinois Association of Park Districts and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association for the invitation to the Soaring to New Heights Luncheon last week. Even with the snow, it was a great turnout and a very successful event. I was honored to attend as Guest of Honor and to spend time with so many dedicated park and recreation leaders, including our friends from the Mundelein Park & Recreation District.
My Office is Coming to Palatine – Traveling Office Hours
Connecting with our community is important, so we’re bringing the office to you! Stop by our Traveling Office Hours in Palatine on February 19 to meet our team, share your thoughts, and get help with any state-related questions. Your input helps guide my work in Springfield.
Grants and Funding Available
Historical Records Preservation Grants
Organizations that maintain historical records may apply for $500 to $5,000 to support digitization and improved public access. Archives, libraries, museums, and universities are eligible, with a one-to-one match required.
Applications are open January 19 through March 13, 2026 via the Illinois State Archives.
$3.6 Million for Local Food Infrastructure
Grants are available to help move Illinois-grown food from farms to consumers through investments in processing, storage, aggregation, and distribution. Collaborative projects may receive $1,000 to $250,000, and individual projects may receive $1,000 to $75,000.
Applications open February 18, 2026, through the Illinois Department of Agriculture.
Innovation Voucher Program
An additional $2.6 million is available to support research partnerships between small businesses and Illinois universities. Businesses can apply for up to $75,000, covering up to 75 percent of eligible costs.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
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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.
Yours truly,
Senator Darby Hills