Welcome to Senator Christopher Belt's legislative website

Belt secures over $800,000 for Metro East libraries

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt announced 31 public libraries and school districts across the Metro East are set to receive more than $800,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.

“Libraries are places where no one is turned away,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Whether you seek knowledge or a place to feel a part of something, libraries will always be there to help you along the way.”

More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.

Read more: Belt secures over $800,000 for Metro East libraries

Belt kicks off 2026 Summer Book Club

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt is launching a Summer Reading Club for students to encourage continued learning throughout the summer.

“It’s important to keep kids engaged throughout the summer through reading, and it’s important for kids to become stronger readers to succeed in school and life,” said Belt (D-Swansea).

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 Belt’s Swansea office or East St. Louis office by Aug. 14. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Belt.

You can fill out the Summer Book Club forms online at SenatorBelt.com. People with questions can reach out to Belt’s East St. Louis office at 618-875-1212 or Swansea office at 618-416-2452.

Belt advances measure to protect consumers’ ability to pay with cash

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure that would prohibit retailers from refusing cash payments up to $500.

“For many Illinois residents, cash remains a dependable and necessary way to pay for everyday purchases,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “People deserve the freedom to choose how they pay.”

Read more: Belt advances measure to protect consumers’ ability to pay with cash

Belt measure would remove employment barriers for people living with disabilities

SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure designed to remove unfair barriers to employment for people living with disabilities.

“People living with disabilities deserve the same opportunity to work, build a career and live with dignity as anyone else,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “They should not be denied opportunities because of outdated hiring practices that fail to account for how people actually travel in their communities.”

Read more: Belt measure would remove employment barriers for people living with disabilities