SPRINGFIELD – The achievements of Career and Technical Education programs across the state will be recognized this February under a measure sponsored by State Senator Mike Halpin.

“Many CTE programs allow students to receive a debt-free education that sets them up with a good job,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “I believe there is agreement out there across our community and state that college isn’t for everyone. We need to be proud of our young people going to vocational school, as our state wouldn’t be able to build any infrastructure without them.”

Senate Resolution 750 declares February 2024 as Career and Technical Education Month in Illinois. Under the resolution, Career and Technical Education is celebrated by highlighting the positive effect it has on students. There are approximately 382,383 secondary and post-secondary students enrolled in CTE programs across the state. CTE is instrumental in ensuring fair and equal access to learning opportunities and supporting local communities.

“Career and Technical Education isn't just about learning skills, it's about empowering students to shape their futures,” said UT Area Career Center Director James Hood. “Students are graduating with not only a diploma, but a toolbox of practical skills ready to use in the real world. Through partnerships with Industry, CTE helps address employer needs, ensuring a pipeline of job-ready candidates.”

Senate Resolution 750 was adopted by the Senate Thursday.

SPRINGFIELD – In response to the governor’s proposed budget address today, State Senator Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island) issued the following statement:

“Stability and growth in Western Illinois starts with a fair budget for everyone. That’s why we have to provide necessary services for residents and businesses alike so they can plan for the future. The governor’s budget is a good start, but we need more for Western Illinois.

“My top priorities will continue to be additional funding for higher education, child care services, infrastructure upgrades and veterans. We have made a good start on these issues in recent years, but there is always room for us to improve.

“As we go through the budget process over these next few months, I will work overtime to ensure that communities in our part of the state get a fair shake. I’m confident that we can get it done, because that’s what our residents deserve.”

Dear friend,

With the spring legislative session currently underway, I’m proud to continue the important work of representing you and bringing forth legislation that has a positive impact across our state.

Read on to learn about new legislation I am working on, utility bill assistance, scholarships, grants and additional opportunities. For updates about my legislation and other helpful resources, follow along on my website.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my Rock Island office at (309) 558-3612, Galesburg office at (309) 297-4483 or online with any questions or concerns.

All the best,

Mike Halpin
State Senator | 36th District

ROCK ISLAND – Under a proposal supported by State Senator Mike Halpin, working parents in Illinois earning the median income or less could soon have the option to claim a state-level child tax credit on their state income taxes.

“With the cost of living and housing skyrocketing, it’s time for us here in Illinois to step up and provide relief for families,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We need to work across the aisle to make sure that our children are taken care of all across the state.”

Senate Bill 3329 would create a state-level child tax credit for eligible low- and middle-income families. Families would receive a $300 tax credit for each qualifying child beginning in tax year 2025. The proposal would benefit joint filers earning less than $75,000 and single filers earning less than $50,000. If passed, Illinois would join more than 14 other states in enacting a state-level child tax credit.

With the cost of living rising across the country, children are often times the most affected.  According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, over seven million children in 2021 lived in a household where they weren’t eating enough because the household couldn’t afford it. In data collected in 2019, 1.1 million children lived in a household where they were sometimes or often not eating enough because the household couldn’t afford it.

“We need this child tax credit because it will help families put food on the table for their children,” said Halpin. “It’s the right thing to do to make sure that no child goes hungry.”

Senate Bill 3329 awaits discussion in the spring legislative session.