WESTERN SPRINGS – Property owners across the state may see lower property taxes thanks to a new law supported by State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs).

“Our recovery is going to take years, and reducing structural, long-term burdens like property taxes must be one of our goals,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Streamlining the approval process for tax exemptions will go a long way to help working families.”

Senate Bill 685 empowers county governments to approve 2020 Homestead Exemptions for those living with disabilities, veterans and senior citizens if their property was granted an exemption in 2019. Counties with under 3 million residents are also allowed to waive interest penalties and fees for late property tax payments in 2020.

The governor signed Senate Bill 685 last week and the legislation is effective immediately.

WESTERN SPRINGS – With students being away from the classroom for more than two months, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) is sharing mental health resources with parents to keep their children well during the pandemic.

“This is a scary and confusing time for many children,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Being away from their friends and teachers can have a negative impact on their mental health. Parents should know the signs.”

The Centers for Disease Control posted guidelines on how to recognize behavioral changes that may indicate they are experiencing a mental health crisis. Notable behaviors include returning to behaviors they have outgrown, excessive worry, irritability, acting out and avoidance of activities enjoyed in the past.

Guidance on how to talk to a child about the COVID-19 pandemic were released by both the Centers for Disease Control and the Mayo Clinic. Parents can ease their child’s worries by reassuring them they are safe, helping them find ways to connect with peers online and by teaching everyday actions to reduce the spread of germs.

WESTERN SPRINGS – With small businesses struggling to cope with the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced new funding for Small Business Development Centers.

“Even though most businesses will soon reopen, many will need additional help to survive,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Small Business Development Centers provide valuable assistance and I encourage our local business community to seek their help during these difficult times.”

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WESTERN SPRINGS – After restrictions were lifted for Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan to allow for outdoor dining, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) encouraged residents to support their local business owners.

“The small businesses that make our community unique are hurting, especially those in the food service and hospitality industries,” Glowiak Hilton said. “We can all do a small part by visiting these local restaurants as they reopen for outdoor seating.”

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