Gillespie works to protect homebuyers from predatory contracts

SPRINGFIELD — For people purchasing a home, an upfront cash payment from a real estate agency in exchange for signing a contract seems harmless. What these homebuyers may not realize is this signed agreement can lead to added costs and barriers when they try to sell their home in the future. This type of predatory contract is what State Senator Ann Gillespie is working to prevent in Illinois.

“People deserve transparency and control when it comes to making decisions about large purchases,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “Buying a house is an investment, and homeowners should not be deceived or steered toward contracts without understanding the full terms.”

Non-Titled Recorded Agreements for Personal Services, known as NTRAPS, are contracts between a service provider — such as a real estate firm — and a homeowner in which the homeowner is offered a small amount of money in exchange for signing an agreement for future services. These long-term agreements are recorded within property records, giving the service provider the right to list the property for future sale. Homeowners who later try to sell their property outside of this agreement or transfer the title can face costly penalties.

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Gillespie legislation addresses elevator safety, accessibility

SPRINGFIELD — For seniors and those with limited mobility, an elevator outage is more than an inconvenience — it is a significant barrier that prevents them from participating in daily life. Recognizing the need for a balanced approach to safety and accessibility, State Senator Ann Gillespie advanced legislation that would allow elevators to remain operational during upgrades or repairs that address minor, non-safety-related deficiencies.

“Elevator safety is paramount, but a minor issue should not prevent someone from being able to access where they need to go,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This legislation reinstates a temporary certificate process — a solution that allows provisional elevator usage to ensure continued accessibility for those who need it.”

Senate Bill 3694 allows the State Fire Marshal to issue a temporary certificate permitting elevator usage during minor repairs or upgrades. These 30-day certificates would only be granted if the elevator does not pose a safety risk to those using or working on the elevator. For instance, if an elevator has a cosmetic imperfection or other minor deficiency that does not affect its functionality, the elevator could still operate while the issue is resolved.

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Gillespie announces funding for Harper College’s nursing program

PALATINE — To help increase the number of professional nurses in Illinois, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced Harper College has been awarded $150,000 to strengthen its nursing program.

“Nursing programs like Harper College’s are vital as our state works to meet the needs of the health care industry,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “This funding will help students overcome financial barriers and access the academic support they need on their journey to becoming our community’s future caregivers.”

The Illinois Board of Higher Education awarded nursing school grants to 12 higher education institutions across the state, including $150,000 to Harper College. The college plans to use the funds for tutoring, scholarships, faculty professional development opportunities and community-building efforts for current students.

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Gillespie announces $427,000 in new paratransit vehicles

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS — Three organizations serving the 27th District will receive new paratransit vehicles to extend safe, reliable and accessible transportation throughout the community, State Senator Ann Gillespie announced on Wednesday.

“These new vehicles will help expand the opportunities offered to seniors and individuals with disabilities,” said Gillespie (D-Arlington Heights). “By investing in improved transportation, we are ensuring essential programs and services are in better reach for those who need it most.”

Through the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation, more than 500 paratransit vehicles valued at $57.1 million have been awarded to 113 transit providers. The vehicles will be delivered to public transportation providers as well as nonprofit organizations serving seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Clearbrook and Xilin Association in Arlington Heights and the Northwest Special Recreation Association in Rolling Meadows are set to receive four vehicles, totaling $427,000. The program helps smaller transit agencies navigate the red tape of the public bidding process while ensuring their vehicles meet federal requirements and specifications.

A full list of awardees can be found here.