ROCK ISLAND – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Mike Halpin is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“This is a great opportunity for students to have fun and keep learning this summer through reading,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “I encourage families with children to participate in this program. Our goal is to keep kids engaged this summer and keep them reading.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Halpin’s office by Aug. 18. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Halpin.

Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorHalpin.com. Senator Halpin urges residents with questions to call his Rock Island office at (309) 558-3612 or Galesburg office at (309) 297-4483.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s legislation that ensures Illinois State University police officers receive the same line of duty disability benefits as every other police officer in the state was signed into law today.

"This is a benefit we hope no officer has to use, but our university police deserve the same benefits as our other officers," said Halpin (D-Rock Island). "We are strengthening their line of duty disability benefit to 65% of their salary, because it’s the right thing to do."

There are currently a total of 659 University police officers enrolled in the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). Under Halpin’s legislation, SURS police will receive a line of duty disability benefit for 65% of their salary. This is parity with all other police officers in the state of Illinois.

GALESBURG – State Senator Halpin is excited to open the doors to his new constituent service office to members of the community Friday, June 16.

“My main priority as a senator is to improve the quality of life for residents in the community while bringing forth legislation that betters the state as whole,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “I am grateful to be a leader and voice for the 36^th District, and take great pride and honor in the responsibility that has been given to me to provide a better tomorrow for my neighbors.”

Halpin’s office opening will be held from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Friday, June 16 at his new constituent service office, located at 117 E. Main St., Suite 103, Galesburg, IL 61401.

The constituent office will provide members of the community with the opportunity to speak with Halpin to address issues that are directly affecting their community.

“I want members of the 36^th District to know that I will fight diligently to make sure that every concern, grievance, and voice is heard and handled with great care and acknowledgement,” said Halpin.

For more information about Senator Halpin’s district office opening people can call (309) 783-3612 or visit SenatorHalpin.com.

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate approved a Fiscal Year 2024 budget, and State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island), released the following statement in response:

“This year’s budget fully funds our services residents rely on and does it without raising taxes. I have voted for a balanced budget every year I have been in office, and this year is no different.

“Most importantly, we have made responsible fiscal decisions that invest in the next generation. This budget increases MAP grants for low income college students by $100 million. It also increases funding for state universities, and increases our own Western Illinois University’s budget by over seven percent.

“Lastly, this budget brings millions of dollars in direct investment in local governments and non-profits right here in Western Illinois.”