Glowiak Hilton proposal strengthens protections for consumers

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To give consumers options in contracts set to automatically renew, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) introduced a measure to require companies to give a clear notification of the agreement’s terms before the consumer accepts.

“Automatic renewal contracts have become increasingly popular in recent years due to streaming services, retail, cell phone companies and more,” said Glowiak Hilton, chair of the Senate Commerce Committee. “To ensure consumers are aware of the automatic renewal commitment, this initiative requires companies to reiterate the contract before consumers accept its terms.”

These consumer protection initiatives make several updates to the state’s Automatic Contract Renewal Act. Current protections are improved by requiring companies to give written notice to consumers before a contract renews and explain what the terms will be, and allowing consumers to end contracts obtained online by visiting the website or by calling.

Businesses who offer a free trial period will also be required to give written notice to the consumer before the promotional period ends.

“Consumers deserve to know what’s in their contracts with large companies through clear communication,” Glowiak Hilton said. “We can offer protection from deceitful business practices by discussing and advancing measures that work to ensure consumers are aware of the contract’s terms and have the opportunity to cancel if they wish.”

Senate Bill 3447 awaits to be assigned to a committee.

Glowiak Hilton applauds nearly $175,000 in grants for local libraries

OAKBROOK TERRACE – With support from State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) to provide aid to library districts for pandemic recovery, five local facilities will receive nearly $175,000 in state grants to enhance their services.

“Libraries are a vital community resource by providing residents with a safe, quiet space to read and learn,” Glowiak Hilton said. “This grant ensures libraries are equipped to serve students and individuals of all ages, especially individuals at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 or have health concerns during the pandemic.”

The initiative is aimed to respond directly to difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant provides funding for libraries to modify services, transform spaces and develop resources for their local recovering workforce and to ensure all operations can be provided safely and effectively as the pandemic continues.

The following libraries in the district Sen. Glowiak Hilton represents will receive funds:

• Benedictine University, Lisle: $9,775
• Butler School District, Oak Brook: $5,902
• Lombard Elementary School District 44: $128,476
• Oak Brook Public Library: $9,011
• Westmont Unit School: $19,840

Approximately $173,004 in funding was granted to libraries in the 24th Senate District. For a full list of libraries receiving a grant, click here.

Glowiak Hilton: Thank our local seniors, nominate them to state hall of fame

OAKBROOK TERRACE – The Illinois Department on Aging is accepting nominations for the Senior Illinoisan Hall of Fame, and State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is encouraging residents to highlight local, exemplary individuals aged 65 or older who live in the 24th District.

Ellman, Glowiak Hilton drop off over 325 purses full of supplies for survivors of domestic violence

DOWNERS GROVE – Following a month-long donation drive, State Senators Laura Ellman (D-Naperville) and Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) dropped off more than 325 purses full of personal care items to the Downers Grove Community Center.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all the members of our community who took the time to make a donation in support of our neighbors in need,” Ellman said. “Especially around the holidays, it’s important to remind survivors of domestic abuse that there’s a whole community behind them.”

The drive was held through #LovePurse, an initiative that collects purses filled with personal care items, toiletries, menstrual products and notes of encouragement to distribute to women in need and survivors of domestic violence.

“When neighbors are experiencing hardship, generosity from community members is critical to building a lasting support network,” Glowiak Hilton said. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you all for your donations and for helping us uplift survivors of domestic violence.”

At the time of the drop off, nearly 150 purses had already been donated to the community center, bringing the total to just shy of 475. The purses will be distributed to those in need throughout the holiday season and into the new year.