OAKBROOK TERRACE – As college application season kicks off, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is encouraging students and their families to explore the state and federal relief opportunities related to financial aid, student loans and college affordability.

“Resources are available to make higher education more affordable to families,” said Senator Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “I’m hopeful this relief can offer support to students needing assistance.”

Under the federal plan for one-time student loan forgiveness announced earlier this year, students who received Federal Pell Grants can have up to $20,000 in debt forgiven and students with non-Pell Grant loans can have up to $10,000 in debt forgiven if their individual income is less than $125,000. The application is available at studentaid.gov and must be completed by Dec. 31, 2023.

OAKBROOK TERRACE – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is encouraging high-school aged girls to apply to the 2022 Illinois Council on Women and Girls. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the legislative process firsthand.

“Young women today are growing up in a different world. It’s important for legislators to listen to the voices and concerns of these girls as we make our way forward in these new times,” said Sen. Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “This is a wonderful opportunity for high-schoolers who have a passion for civic engagement and want their voices to be heard.”

This opportunity seeks to let young women share their voices and experiences to help make Illinois a place where all girls can thrive. Participants will have the opportunity to provide policy recommendations on legislation that impacts the lives of women and girls in Illinois, critical topics such as health care, academic and economic opportunities, and gender-based violence.

Committee meetings will begin December 2022 and include bi-weekly meetings and one-hour quarterly meetings with other council committees. The bi-weekly meetings are typically held after school hours and there participants will plan events and projects. Those selected will serve a one-year term during which they will not only learn about the legislative process, but have a hand in it as well.

Applications are due no later than Oct. 23 and are open for girls grades 9 through 12. For more information and to apply, visit the Illinois State Board of Education’s application portal.

“Being a part of this committee gives girls the chance to help make their communities a better place,” Glowiak Hilton said. “I am thankful to the Illinois Council on Women and Girls for providing this opportunity to young women, and I encourage them to apply.”

Senator Glowiak Hilton’s office is available to answer questions, to contact please call (630) 785-3177 or visit her website.

OAKBROOK TERRACE – State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton signed on in support of legislation to clarify language in the SAFE-T Act and improve how officials can enforce the law.

“Improving public safety will rely on many factors, and in order to be effective, the individuals responsible for implementation must feel comfortable with any changes,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Senate Bill 4228 will help law enforcement officials to continue to perform their duties and protect our communities.”

The intent of the law aims to end cash bail to improve racial equity in the criminal justice system. Senate Bill 4228 updates many provisions in the SAFE-T Act by adding clarifying language to address concerns raised by local law enforcement officials.

OAKBROOK TERRACE – To offer residents a safe option to discard documents with personal information, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton is hosting an event with free shredding services in Lombard.

“Securely destroying sensitive documents is a strong way to protect yourself and your loved ones from identity fraud,” said Sen. Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “Shredding services are popular events in our community, and I encourage everyone to gather documents and attend.”

Free shredding services will be available from 9 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Lombard Municipal Complex, on the corner of Hammerschmidt and Central Avenues. Attendees are asked to enter the complex on Wilson Avenue.

Questions should be directed to Sen. Glowiak Hilton’s office by calling 630-785-3177.