Welcome to Senator Christopher Belt legislative website

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 “They should not be denied opportunities because of outdated hiring practices that fail to account for how people actually travel in their communities.”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

Belt helps secure neighborhood infrastructure funding in Belleville

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt announced Belleville will receive a total of $250,000 through Illinois’ Safe Routes to School program to improve pedestrian safety and expand opportunities for children and families to safely walk and bike in their community.

“Keeping children safe on their way to school should always be a top priority,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I am happy to help secure this funding so students and families can have greater peace of mind every day.”

Read more: Belt helps secure neighborhood infrastructure funding in Belleville