ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin announced that area school districts will receive over $8.8 million thanks to the evidence-based funding formula.

“Each school has diverse needs to best assist students with the proper support and resources,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “With the evidence-based funding formula, our students, teachers and districts will see the benefits of investing into their future and meeting these diverse needs.”

ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin announced Wednesday that Rock Island County will receive $562,325 through the Job Training and Economic Development Program.

“Continuing to support those who are seeking employment is important,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “The Job Training and Economic Development program will provide essential resources to our residents who have been struggling with employment opportunities.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to create a Community-Based Corrections Task Force to research the benefits of specialty courts and community-based correctional centers was signed into law on Friday.

“Listening to the experts and community residents is how we create common-sense laws that are fair to everyone,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This task force will show us how folks struggling with mental illness or addiction interact with our criminal justice system so we can achieve better outcomes for these individuals while keeping our communities safe.”

ROCK ISLAND – State Senator Mike Halpin is encouraging fire departments to apply for the Small Equipment Grant program to help them be better equipped to protect their communities.

“When someone is in need of first responders, they should not have to worry about them not being prepared with the right equipment,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This grant program will support our first responders with the proper tools to better serve our neighbors.”