Glowiak Hilton, Deuter to host satellite office hours in Westmont

WESTMONT — To give residents an opportunity to receive assistance and ask questions, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton and State Representative Marti Deuter are hosting satellite office hours at the Westmont Public Library on Monday, Feb. 23.

“Satellite office hours provide residents an avenue to have their voices heard,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “My staff will be available to deliver helpful insight, discuss legislation and provide information about resources and programs available for residents. I encourage all of our community members to take advantage of this opportunity.” 

Glowiak Hilton and Deuter’s staff will be available on Monday, Feb. 23 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Westmont Public Library, located at 428 N. Cass Ave. in Westmont.

This free event is an initiative from Glowiak Hilton and Deuter’s offices to assist residents with state resources, as well as increase accessibility and government accountability by holding office hours at different days, times and locations.

If anyone has questions or concerns, they are encouraged to contact Glowiak Hilton’s office at 630-785-3177.

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.