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.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure enhancing driver education to keep first responders and emergency crews safe on the road was signed into law.

“Scott’s Law is an important public safety rule,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We must do everything we can to educate drivers about it. When driver’s license applicants get that question wrong, it’s imperative that they are specifically made aware of the law so we can reduce the number of unnecessary deaths in the line of duty.”

Scott’s Law requires drivers to change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, including highway maintenance vehicles displaying flashing lights, and any stationary vehicle with their hazard lights activated. Halpin’s new law requires the Secretary of State to provide specific information about Scott’s Law to any person who incorrectly answers the question about Scott’s Law on the driver’s license written exam.

House Bill 4711 was signed into law on Friday and takes effect Jan. 1.