Regional Media Podcast Network

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Michael E. Hastings advanced legislation designed to protect homeowners from excessive insurance rate increases and ensure fairness, transparency and accountability in Illinois homeowners insurance.

"With this legislation, we are putting fairness and accountability back into the system," said Hastings (D-Frankfort). "Here is what this means for Illinois homeowners — no more surprise renewals, no more fine print, no more ‘gotcha’ letters in the mail.”

The legislation would establish clear rules for homeowners insurance, including:

• No surprise renewals: Companies would be required to give at least 60 days’ notice before nonrenewal and at least 60 days’ notice for premium increases over 10% or changes in coverage or deductibles.
• Use of Illinois-specific data: Insurers would need to use credible state-specific loss experience when setting rates.
• Fair, reasonable and transparent rates: Rates would need to be actuarially sound and not excessive, inadequate or unfairly discriminatory.
• Accountability and enforcement: The Department of Insurance would be able to review filings, issue orders and require rebates when rates are found unfair.

The legislation would apply specifically to fire and extended coverage insurance for residential owner occupied properties, while excluding commercial, rental and unoccupied properties.

Hastings emphasized the legislation is leveling the playing field for Illinois residents.

"We are tired of the industry cherry picking data from across the country when setting their rates,” said Hastings. “This legislation guarantees homeowners a fair shake, with rates based on real Illinois data."

House Bill 3799 passed the Senate on Thursday.

Springfield’s energy debate has heated up as State Senator Neil Anderson from Andalusia voiced sharp concerns after the passage of the so-called “Energy Omnibus Bill.” Anderson argues the new legislation grants excessive power to unelected regulators, removes protections that cap energy costs, and pushes taxpayer-funded experimental battery projects into local communities. While acknowledging that lifting the ban on nuclear reactor construction is a positive change, he warns it’s not enough to offset what he sees as a shift toward expensive and unreliable green policies. Anderson insists affordable, reliable energy requires fewer subsidies for wind and solar and a return to coal, natural gas, and increased nuclear development.

Coach Zach Anderson joined Issac Forney on Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss the new 8-man football team and heading to the playoffs for the first time in three decades. Galva’s football team is making history this season, reaching the playoffs for the first time as a standalone program since 1994. Head Football Coach Zach Anderson, a Galva alum, credits this turnaround to renewed community spirit, fresh athletes joining the team, and a culture shift toward hard work and determination. Shifting to 8-man football has brought new opportunities—and challenges centered around speed on the field. Coach Zach emphasizes that speed is a critical factor in the faster-paced, narrower eight-man format. He credits a culture shift and renewed energy for the team’s growth, with more students eager to join next season. With a 5-4 record and a tough road matchup against South Fork this Saturday in Kincaid, the excitement is palpable across Galva. Players, coaches, and fans are hungry for more and eager to prove themselves on the big stage.

Samantha Rux from OSF HealthCare joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss Halloween safety. Halloween Row, located on East Prospect Street, is gearing up for a lively and crowded celebration this year, as festivities fall on a Friday. The city will once again close the street to traffic, creating a safer environment for hundreds of trick-or-treaters. As Halloween approaches, residents on East Prospect and across the city are reminded to prioritize safety during trick-or-treating.

The OSF HealthCare Emergency Management Team emphasizes safety by sharing the "SCARE SAFE" acronym with reminders such as staying in groups, checking costumes for fire resistance, staying alert, and inspecting all treats before eating. Parents are also encouraged to equip children with flashlights or glow sticks and to avoid homes without porch lights. Candy alternatives like small toys or pencils are also welcome.

S - Stay in groups and with family or friends
C - Costumes should be flame-resistant
A - Always be aware of your surroundings.
R - Remember to look both ways
E - Examine all candy before eating

S - Stay on sidewalks and out of traffic
A - Avoid homes without the porch light on
F - Flashlights and glow sticks help with visibility
E - Enjoy the holiday with caution

As Halloween approaches, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with First Choice Healthcare, urge families to prioritize safety. Parents should keep sick children home and encourage frequent hand washing. Most accidents stem from trips, falls, and traffic, so motorists need to be especially alert for trick-or-treaters at dusk. Costumes should be short to prevent tripping and include reflective tape for visibility. Children under 12 are advised to have adult supervision, stick to familiar neighborhoods, and avoid entering strangers’ homes. For more safety tips and resources, visit henrystarkhealth.com or follow the health department on Facebook, Instagram, or X.

Stark County FFA Students Toby Williams, Jake Primo, Emma Howell, Hailie Ales, Addison Nowlan, Klaire Bays, Darilis Knobloch, and FFA Advisor Taylor Wilkinson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about winning state championships with their projects and heading to Nationals next week, a new greenhouse, and visiting the elementary school to talk about "Stranger Danger." Five projects have advanced to the prestigious status of national finalists, while another project was recognized with an impressive 11th-place finish. These talented students will discover their final rankings in October, when the results are announced live during the National FFA Convention and Expo in Indianapolis.

Stark County FFA members from Illinois received recognition across several areas, including Emma Howell and Addison Nowlan in Social Science, Preston Hillier in Power Systems, Klaire Bays and Hailie Ales in Plant Systems, Chelsey Stotler in Plant Systems, Toby Williams and Darilis Knobloch in Food Products, and Jake Primo in Environmental Services.

FFA officers visited Stark County Elementary School on October 22nd, engaging students in vital discussions about ‘Stranger Danger’ ahead of Halloween. The presentation focused on important safety measures, such as staying in groups while trick-or-treating, using flashlights, and choosing bright costumes for better visibility. Interactive games and activities helped reinforce these messages, aiming to make sure every student takes the right precautions while enjoying Halloween festivities. The officers’ visit was made possible thanks to support from Ms. Swope, the elementary teaching staff, administration, and Officer Ashley Karpel, who all contributed tips to maximize safety during the upcoming holiday.

Addison and Emma shared their experiences on the ‘Wellness in the Fields’ podcast presented by the SIU Medicine Farm Family Resource Initiative. The discussion covered the unique mental health challenges faced by farm families, with a special focus on how generational farming impacts stress levels. Both guests emphasized the importance of support systems within rural communities. Additionally, the pair highlighted their participation in the FFA Agriscience Fair, expressing enthusiasm and high hopes for their project as they look ahead to next year’s competition.

Central School Principal Jason Anderson and Assistant Principal Jill Peart joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss what is happening at Central Elementary and Junior High School.  Central Elementary and Junior High are celebrating several achievements this month. The Central Steamers Junior High Football team has wrapped their season undefeated, boasting a 6-0 regular record and 7-0 in the conference. At the recent Kewanee School Board meeting, school leaders were recognized for advancing the Central School Improvement Plan (SIP). The school received a grant directed at boosting math proficiency and supporting test scores for students with disabilities. Special recognition goes to Alicia Ralston, nominated for Teacher of the Year by the Illinois State Board of Education. Her leadership in teaching and curriculum innovation continues to inspire the entire school community.