I hope you enjoyed your weekend! It was a busy week in our district, and I’m excited to share some of the latest updates, community highlights, and important information with you. From discussing e-bike safety legislation on ABC 7 Eyewitness News to bringing families together at our Kids Fair, I remain committed to keeping you informed and serving our communities.
Topics below include:
- On ABC 7 Eyewitness News: Senator Hills Highlights Need for Statewide E-Bike Safety Standards
- Rain or Shine, Families Came Together for a Day of Fun at the Kids Fair
- Release of Legislative Inspector General’s Report
- Notice of Road Closure Rt. 59 GHO Stormwater Drainage Project
- Mark Your Calendars! Upcoming Events Near You
On ABC 7 Eyewitness News: Senator Hills Highlights Need for Statewide E-Bike Safety Standards
I joined ABC 7 Eyewitness News with Tanja Babich to discuss SB 3484, legislation I co-sponsored to bring common-sense safety standards to e-bikes and other micromobility devices across Illinois.
As a mom, legislator, and community member, I’ve heard from parents, local officials, and law enforcement about the challenges created by rapidly evolving technology and a lack of clear rules.
E-bikes and scooters can be a great way for families to get outside and stay active, but our laws need to keep pace with how these devices are being used. SB 3484 creates a consistent statewide framework, provides clearer expectations for riders, and gives law enforcement the tools they need to address unsafe operation.
This bipartisan legislation passed both chambers of the General Assembly and is now awaiting action from Governor Pritzker. I hope he signs it so Illinois families, riders, and communities have the clarity and safety standards they deserve.
Rain or Shine, Families Came Together for a Day of Fun at the Kids Fair
Despite the rainy weather, families from across the community came out to make this year’s Kids Fair a tremendous success. It was wonderful to see so many children enjoying the activities, meeting local organizations, and spending quality time together. Thank you to everyone who attended, as well as our volunteers, vendors, and community partners who helped make the event possible. We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many wonderful families and look forward to seeing everyone again next year!
Release of Legislative Inspector General’s Report
I am pleased that the Legislative Ethics Commission has released the Legislative Inspector General’s report, something I have called for from the very beginning. Every woman deserves to feel safe and respected in the workplace and no one should ever face intimidation or retaliation for reporting misconduct
The findings make clear that this behavior was allowed to continue for far too long. Those in positions of power have a responsibility to protect employees, take allegations seriously, and ensure misconduct is addressed immediately.
This is not a partisan issue. It is about protecting people, demanding accountability, and restoring trust in state government.
Notice of Road Closure Rt. 59 GHO Stormwater Drainage Project
I want to make sure residents are aware of an upcoming road closure that may impact their daily commute. Beginning Thursday, August 13, through Tuesday, September 15, Illinois Route 59 will be closed in both directions between Cuba Road and Illinois Route 22 while crews replace a large box culvert as part of the Village of North Barrington’s GHO Stormwater Drainage Project. If you travel through this area, please plan ahead, allow extra time for your commute, and follow the posted detour signs. Thank you for your patience as this important infrastructure project is completed to improve safety for everyone who uses this roadway.
Mark Your Calendars! Upcoming Events Near You
There’s something happening all summer long across the 26th District! I am hosting these events to connect residents with valuable resources, services, educational seminars, family activities, and opportunities to get involved.
August Events
🩸 Blood Drive
Tuesday, August 11 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Palatine Village Hall
200 E. Wood St., Palatine
💻 Keeping Kids Safe in a Digital World
Wednesday, August 26 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Barrington Park District
235 Lions Drive, Barrington
💊 Palatine Prescription Drug Drop-Off Event
Saturday, August 29 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Palatine Police Department
595 N. Hicks Rd., Palatine
September Events
💊 Mundelein Medicare 101
Tuesday, September 8 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Mundelein Police Department
221 N. Lake St., Mundelein, IL 60060
🎓 Virtual Financial Aid Webinar
Wednesday, September 9 | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Virtual Event
💼 Job Fair
Monday, September 21 | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Mundelein Park & Recreation District
1401 N. Midlothian Rd., Mundelein
🛡️ Hawthorn Woods Senior Fraud Prevention Seminar
Wednesday, September 23 | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
The Barn at Village Hall
2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods, IL 60047
👵 Wauconda Senior Health Fair
Wednesday, September 30 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Wauconda Township
505 West Bonner Road, Wauconda, IL 60084
Stay tuned for more events to be added! Visit www.senatordarbyhills.com/events to follow along and learn more details.
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