Dear neighbor,
It’s that time of year — flowers are blooming, temperatures are warming up and we’re in the final stretch of this legislative session. I will be in Springfield this month discussing budget priorities with my colleagues and working to pass legislation that recognizes veterans and protects first responders. Read on for updates about bills I’m working on, helpful resources and grant opportunities.
My office is ready to assist you in accessing state resources, answering questions on legislation and more. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my Rock Island office at (309) 558-3612, Galesburg office at (309) 297-4483 or online.
Sincerely,
Mike Halpin
State Senator | 36th District
Legislative updates
Scott’s Law
I advanced a measure that would enhance education on Scott’s Law during the written driver’s license exam. Scott's Law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles like first responders, including highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights and any stationary vehicle with their hazard lights activated. We must do everything we can to educate drivers about it. Read more here.
Honoring Air Force veterans
I passed legislation to create a specialty Air Force Combat Action Medal license plate. Currently, the Air Force is the only branch of the military that does not have a license plate for combat veterans. This is a small way we can honor Air Force veterans in our community. Read more here.
Tech Day at the Capitol
These dedicated Knoxville students came to Springfield to showcase their Sphero robotics project. They taught me how to maneuver Sphero in the “long jump.” Thanks to Knoxville CUSD #202 for selecting them to make the trip to Springfield. These programs are priceless and set students on a path to future success.
In the district
Teachers of the year
Huge congratulations to Sara Mendez for being awarded Bilingual Teacher of the Year and Mallory Tolley for being awarded West Central Regional Teacher of the Year. Your dedication to shaping young minds and creating an inspiring learning environment doesn't go unnoticed. Thank you for all you do to make a difference in the lives of your students.
Three local businesses awarded manufacturing grants
It’s good to see the state investing in the businesses that are making products right here at home. We need more Illinois-made products so we don't have to rely on overseas manufacturers.
Moline Welding, Tri-City Heat Treat Company and Whitey’s Ice Cream were each awarded $47,420 in funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program. Read more here.
New president at WIU
Earlier this year I had the pleasure of speaking about higher education in Illinois with Dr. Kristi Mindrup, the new interim president of WIU as of this April. Congratulations and good luck in your new role!
Resources
Prioritizing your mental health
Recognized each May, Mental Health Month serves as a way to eradicate stigma surrounding mental health care, foster education and extend support to individuals on their journey to mental wellness. This year’s theme is “Where to Start: Mental Health in a Changing World.” As conversations around mental health become increasingly normalized in society, many still find it challenging to initiate self-care practices for their well-being. Discover resources and ways to get started here.
Summer grocery assistance
If you have school-aged children, you may be eligible for grocery assistance this summer. Summer EBT offers families $120 for each eligible child to purchase groceries. You can receive this benefit even if your child is getting free meals at summer school or camp. For details and to apply, visit WeGotYouIllinois.org.
Get back on track with student loans
If you’ve fallen behind on federal student loan payments, help may be available. The U.S. Department of Education’s Fresh Start program will move qualifying loans back into repayment status and remove the default from your credit report, opening the door to federal financial aid and income-driven repayment options. To see if you qualify, visit here and sign up by Sept. 30.
There’s still time to get a REAL ID
Don’t miss your chance to obtain a REAL ID! If you do not have a valid U.S. passport and travel by plane or visit military bases or secure federal facilities, you need to obtain a REAL ID before the May 7, 2025 deadline. Visit a Secretary of State facility near you to ensure you’re ready for any travel needs that come your way. Learn more at realid.ilsos.gov.
Grants and funding opportunities
Rebuild Downtowns & Main Streets Grant
The Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets Capital program has allocated $20 million for eligible local units of government. This program aims to support the construction, repair and modernization of public infrastructure and amenities in commercial centers and downtown areas. Apply by July 22 on DCEO’s website.
Support for new grocery stores
Applications are open for grants to combat food insecurity across Illinois. As part of the Illinois Grocery Initiative, the New Stores in Food Deserts Program will support new independent, nonprofit and co-op grocery stores in underserved areas. Learn more and apply by May 24 on the DCEO website.
Grants to fund community solar projects
Agencies in low-income and historically disadvantaged communities can apply for funding to develop community solar projects as part of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. The Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program provides upfront funding to help community-based organizations and technical services overcome barriers in planning, developing and implementing community solar projects. Apply by July 1 here.
$10 million available for community revitalization efforts
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is encouraging eligible organizations to apply for funding aimed at rejuvenating commercial corridors and downtown areas statewide. Funding is available through the Research in Illinois to Spur Economic Recovery initiative to accelerate economic recovery from the pandemic. Find more information about the RISE program and apply by July 22 on the DCEO website.