Hello, I hope you enjoyed your weekend. This week, I’m back in the district continuing our work to support families and strengthen our communities.
I also have some important events coming up this weekend, including a job fair and prescription drug take-back event, which are both great opportunities to connect residents with resources and keep our community safe.
In addition, my diaper drive is coming to a close, and I’m grateful for everyone who has already contributed to help support local families in need.
Topics below include:
- Hills Helps Advance E-Bike Safety Legislation Following Community Concerns
- You Asked / We Acted – Flooding Impacts Local Communities Along Fox River and Chain O’ Lakes
- Hills Puts Affordability First for Illinois Families Through Tax Relief
- Constituents at the Capitol
- Upcoming Job Fair
Hills Helps Advance E-Bike Safety Legislation Following Community Concerns
I was proud to stand alongside the Secretary of State as we announced the passage of SB3336 through the Illinois Senate. As a chief co-sponsor, I’m excited to move forward a comprehensive micromobility safety plan that sets clear, statewide rules for high-speed e-bikes and e-motos. The reality is, this technology has outpaced our laws, but through bipartisan collaboration, we’ve worked to close dangerous gaps, strengthen safety standards, and give law enforcement the tools they need to keep our communities safe.
You Asked / We Acted – Flooding Impacts Local Communities Along Fox River and Chain O’ Lakes
As you know, communities across our region are facing significant flooding following heavy rains, high winds, and rising water levels along the Fox River and Chain O’ Lakes, which has been closed to boating.
According to the National Weather Service, the Fox River has reached flood stage and is expected to continue rising, with a projected crest by midweek. Officials warn this event is becoming a major flood, with the lower river likely to exceed levels seen during the 2017 Northern Illinois Flood. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources estimates the Chain O’ Lakes could reach about 7.3 feet in the coming days.
On Sunday, in response to rapidly changing conditions, I worked closely with Lake County’s Emergency Manager, Dan Eder, along with local mayors, public works teams, and Cuba Township, after the Village of Algonquin ran out of sandbags, and constituents in Port Barrington and surrounding areas urgently needed additional support and volunteers. Together, we troubleshot supply needs in real time, coordinated with public works, and were able to secure 3,000 sandbags to help protect homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure across the impacted communities.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to the volunteers who have stepped up during this difficult time. Your willingness to help your neighbors reflects the very best of our communities.
The Fox Waterway Agency has closed the lakes and is urging residents and boaters to take immediate precautions:
- Move valuables and equipment out of low-lying areas such as basements and garages
- Check sump pumps and backup power sources
- Clear storm drains and gutters
- Secure boats, docks, and outdoor furniture
- Stay informed through official updates and follow local safety guidance
Sandbags remain available through local townships for those who still need them. Water levels can change quickly depending on additional rainfall, and I urge everyone to stay alert, take precautions, and stay safe.
If you need anything at all, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office. I am here to help!
Senator Hills Puts Affordability First for Illinois Families Through Tax Relief
Illinois families are facing rising costs at every stage of life, from childcare and preschool to everyday essentials like diapers and prescription medications. These are not optional expenses, and for many, they’re making it harder to stay in the workforce and make ends meet.
On Tax Day (April 15), I joined a press conference to highlight these challenges and introduce a legislative package focused on relief. This includes Senate Bills 3851 and Senate Bill 3869 to eliminate state sales taxes on prescription medications and diapers—helping families and seniors better afford basic necessities.
Additional proposals expand access to childcare and support working parents. Senate Bill 2277increases incentives for on-site childcare, while Senate Bill 2382 creates a tax credit for donating property for childcare use.
The package also includes Senate Bill 1647, creating a tax credit of up to $1,500 per child for preschool, and Senate Bill 1646, which provides a refundable tax credit for early childhood educators to improve retention in this critical field.
Families are already stretched thin and should not be paying taxes on necessities like diapers and prescription medications. These are everyday costs that families cannot avoid, yet many are struggling to afford. This is about affordability for families and making sure working parents can meet basic needs at home.
Constituents at the Capitol
It was a pleasure welcoming Harper College students from our district to the Capitol today. I had the chance to meet with them and spend time chatting about their studies, their goals, and what brought them to Springfield.
Visits like these are a great reminder of why I serve, engaging directly with students, answering their questions, and helping them see how state government works firsthand. I’m grateful they took the time to come to the Capitol, and I look forward to seeing all they go on to accomplish.
It was great to meet with Katie Weir during the Illinois School Nutrition Association Advocacy Day at the Capitol. Katie, from Township High School District 211, took time to share her perspective and advocate on issues impacting school nutrition programs across Illinois.
I appreciate her dedication to supporting students and ensuring they have access to healthy meals.
It was a pleasure to welcome representatives from the Village of Rolling Meadows to the Capitol. We had a great conversation about the priorities and needs of their community, and I appreciate them taking the time to advocate on behalf of their residents.
Strong partnerships with our local municipalities like Rolling Meadows are essential to making sure state government is responsive and effective for the people we serve.
Upcoming Job Fair
Looking for a new opportunity or career change? Join me at our upcoming Job Fair to connect with local employers ready to hire. This is a great chance to explore openings, ask questions, and take the next step in your career. I hope to see you there!
When:
Monday, April 27, 2026
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Where:
Foglia YMCA
1025 N. Old McHenry Rd.
Lake Zurich, IL 60047
View more information and the full list of participating vendors here.
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.