Glowiak Hilton: a balanced budget must be a top priority

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) released the following statement in response to the governor’s Fiscal Year 2027 budget address:

“The federal government has created a lot of uncertainly for us in Illinois, but a balanced budget must continue to be our top priority. It’s vital that this budget reflects the priorities of the residents of the 23rd Senate District and sets Illinois on a sustainable path forward.”

Glowiak Hilton law bans misleading at-home sexual evidence kits

SPRINGFIELD — Illinois will join a growing list of states banning the sale of at-home sexual assault evidence collection kits starting Jan. 1 thanks to State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

“At-home kits cannot replace the care of a medical professional,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “People will no longer be misled about the products that raise reliability and privacy concerns.”

In Illinois, medical forensic exams are offered at no cost, and in addition to addressing physical trauma, a trained crisis advocate provides emotional support and explains the survivor’s rights and options. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners conduct the exams, collect evidence according to established protocols and can testify in court if necessary.

At-home sexual assault evidence collection kits are marketed online as an alternative to medical forensic exams, but they lack the oversight and expertise needed for reliable evidence collection. The Illinois Attorney General has raised concerns that these at-home kits are unreliable and unlikely to hold up in criminal court proceedings due to issues with evidence handling.

To address these risks, Glowiak Hilton’s law makes it illegal for anyone other than a medical professional to sell, advertise or distribute sexual assault evidence collection kits. Under the new law, survivors who have been misled into purchasing a kit can seek compensation for any harm caused by false claims about the kit’s effectiveness in pursuing criminal charges.

“In Illinois, we have worked to support and uplift survivors,” said Glowiak Hilton. “With this new law, we are staying true to our word by reinforcing our state’s commitment to survivor-centered and trauma-informed care.”

House Bill 2548 takes effect Jan. 1.

Glowiak Hilton launches holiday card drive for seniors

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is hosting a holiday card drive to spread cheer this holiday season for residents at local long-term care facilities.

“The holiday season is a great time to show our seniors some appreciation while spreading joy throughout our community,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Little acts of kindness like making cards can brighten someone’s day.”

Glowiak Hilton is encouraging residents to write handmade or store-bought cards to help bring joy to older adults who may be feeling lonely or isolated during the holidays. Children are also encouraged to participate.

Cards can be mailed or delivered now through Dec. 17 to Glowiak Hilton’s office at 1 S. Cass Ave, Suite 203, Westmont, IL 60559. Cards can be dropped through the mail slot.

For more information, contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177.

Glowiak Hilton calls for bipartisan action to protect Illinois families from SNAP benefit shutdown

OAKBROOK TERRACE — State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is urging federal lawmakers to resolve the ongoing government shutdown to prevent the cessation of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, benefits, come Nov. 1. Nearly two million Illinois residents rely on SNAP to provide basic nutrition for themselves and their families.

"Food assistance programs like SNAP serve as a lifeline for families who are trying their best to put food on their tables," said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Politics aside, we need to come together to protect a basic human right. Action is needed now. ”

SNAP provides critical support for children, seniors, veterans and individuals with disabilities, offering the nutrition they need to live healthy, productive lives. The federal government shutdown threatens to halt these benefits immediately, putting millions at risk of food insecurity – including the 18,066 people in the district Glowiak Hilton represents who rely on SNAP benefits.

Read more …