Rock Island – Thanks to State Senator Mike Halpin’s years-long advocacy for evidence based funding for K-12 schools, Illinois will be awarding an additional $11 million to Western Illinois schools.

“Evidence based funding is one of the true bright spots we have accomplished here in Illinois,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Our schools are the key to a healthy community and a bright future. We are making sure our state dollars are put to work aiding the schools that need it most.”

Passed in 2017, Halpin has remained a staunch advocate for evidence based funding as a way to create a targeted and equitable funding model to support K-12 education. The law makes funding more equitable by providing state revenue based on individual school district need. Several factors are considered, key elements include poverty rate, enrollment, special education and English language learners among others.

These Western Illinois school districts will receive evidence based funding this coming fiscal year:

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s bill to bolster interstate mental health access and support Rock Island mental facilities was signed into law Friday.

“Neighbors look out for each other when times get tough,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Allowing involuntary inpatient Iowans to use Rock Island mental health infrastructure will ensure they receive quality care close to home.”

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

“This law gives these vulnerable Iowan patients access to the care they need closer to their families and hometowns,” said Halpin. “By removing this barrier Illinois is showing its commitment to mental health care while bringing benefits to residents on both sides of the Mississippi.”

Senate Bill 188 is effective immediately.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s bill to guarantee attorney’s fees to defendants in a home repair or remodeling contract has been signed into law.

“Homeowners deserve fair compensation and quality representation if they have a genuine dispute and receive a favorable ruling,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This law ensures a resident will have one less cost barrier to enforce their rights against a contractor.”

State law already required consumer contracts in cases under $10,000 to pay out attorney’s fees to a consumer if the consumer prevails in their action. This initiative will ensure that if a home repair and remodeling contract allows attorney’s fees, then the contract will permit the award of attorney’s fees to all parties in the contract.

“This law is leveling the playing field in the court room for defendants and ensures they are properly compensated,” said Halpin. “No one should be intimidated by cost when seeking justice.”

House Bill 24 was signed into law August 1 and is effective immediately.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s effort to protect rural auctioneers was signed into law Friday.

“We are working to protect local and rural auctioneers from unregulated online auctions and give bidders peace of mind when they make their transactions,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “Illinois must guarantee that all auction services are carried out by credible, licensed auction professionals. This law will protect our local auctioneers and give bidders peace of mind when they make their transactions.”