Illinois’ public universities and select community colleges will prepare students for professional licensing exams, graduate-level admissions exams, and credential exams

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin and State Representative Dan Swanson have announced a new state program that will help Illinois college students prepare for graduate school and in-demand careers.

“Prohibitive cost on prep courses and entrance exams can close the door on a students’ post-graduate ambitions,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island) chair of the Senate Appropriations Education Committee. “This program ensures every prospective post-graduate student gets the fair shot they deserve, opening the door to a good education and a fulfilling career. Illinois’ investment in our students represents an investment in our future.”

The Prepare for Illinois' Future Program is the result of a commitment by the State of Illinois, Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC), and leading global education company Kaplan to provide free test preparation courses to students enrolled in Illinois’ public universities as well as five community colleges. Western Illinois University was the first school to join the program, and Carl Sandburg College is also being on boarded for all students.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin is disheartened the federal administration ended the Local Food Purchase Assistance Program and the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program – a major blow for both farmers and the people who depend on the programs.

“With this decision, the federal administration has shown total contempt and lack of empathy for our local farmers and our communities most vulnerable,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Many Illinoisans depend on these programs to get fresh, healthy food and the federal administration is gleefully taking that food off folks’ dinner tables. The Illinois-EATS program allows us to connect disadvantaged farmers to people who desperately need access to healthy food. Slashing this program has brought uncertainty to folks who need as much stability in their lives as they can get.”

SPRINGFIELD – Former federal workers will have an increased shot at continuing public service in Illinois, thanks to advocacy from State Senator Mike Halpin and residents of western Illinois.

“A local resident wrote a letter to my office asking that Illinois take on this issue and show these public servants the support and solidarity they deserve,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “I want folks across Illinois to know that when you speak up and participate in state government, you can make a difference.”

Illinois is hosting two Spring Career Fairs to recruit former federal workers to a diverse set of job opportunities in fields like engineering, health care and more. The news from the governor and the Illinois Department of Central Management Services comes after Halpin sent a letter to the governor urging him to attract former federal workers to Illinois government after they were unjustly fired. The federal government is the second largest employer in Illinois and many state agencies are looking for career professionals. Several constituents reached out to Halpin regarding this issue.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s bill to support Rock Island mental facilities and vulnerable Iowa patients passed committee today.

“Health care access is a concern that crosses state lines,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Allowing Iowa patients to access Rock Island mental health infrastructure is a win-win, particularly with the quality care our facilities can provide.”

Senate Bill 188 would allow for Iowa involuntary in-patient admissions to be accepted at Rock Island County facilities in Illinois. Illinois law presently does not allow for involuntary admissions to cross state lines and patients may have to travel upwards of five hours away to receive care.

“This bill will give vulnerable patients access to a facility closer to their families and home towns,” said Halpin. “Allowing in-patient services across state lines will further integrate the Quad Cities and benefit residents on both sides of the river.”

Senate Bill 188 passed the Senate Behavioral and Mental Health Committee and now heads to the Senate for further consideration.