Castro seeks local input for Elgin infrastructure hearing

ELGIN – Local government entities and other organizations will have the chance to share their thoughts this April on a potential infrastructure plan for the state at a hearing for the Transportation Subcommittee on Capital.

State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) pushed for Elgin to be included in a statewide tour of hearings to highlight local infrastructure needs.

“I am excited for Elgin to be on the statewide tour of hearings,” Castro said. “This will give local groups and organizations a chance to show us what projects are needed to enhance the job market in our community and our economy.”

Anyone who has any questions, concerns or comments are encouraged to email the senator’s office with their name and organization at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The hearing will take place on Monday, April 22^nd at the Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., in Elgin from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Castro: Auditor General report confirms negligence in the Legionnaires outbreak

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) released the following statement in response to the audit report released by the Auditor General’s office earlier today:

“This report confirms what we already knew. The Rauner administration knew there was a crisis at the Quincy veterans home days before staff was made aware. The lack of notice ultimately caused more deaths to the already frail residents of the home. I hope the investigation by the attorney general’s office holds accountable those responsible for this heinous act.”

2019 Trans Day of Visibility

Castro protects Illinois consumers from rebate fraud

SPRINGFIELD– Senator Cristina Castro (D-Elgin) passed her measure in committee today which would allow Illinois consumers to have an added protection.

Under Castro’s legislation, consumers would be protected from misleading practices, especially seniors and working families. The measure would make it an unlawful practice to offer consumers a rebate card that charges dormancy fees or other post-issuance fee.

“If a consumer is owed money from a rebate, they shouldn’t be hindered by dormancy fees,” said Castro. “It is unfair to the consumer. Consumers shouldn’t be at risk of being charged for getting a rebate. That is their money.”

This measure was an initiative from the Illinois State Treasurer to prevent banks from taking unclaimed property on rebate cards. The State Treasurer and the Attorney General have worked together to protect Illinois consumers who have money owed to them from rebates.  

Senate Bill 222 passed the Commerce and Economic Development Committee and will now move to the Senate for a vote.