Belt welcomes $485,000 in state grants for local school maintenance

EAST ST. LOUIS – With support from State Senator Christopher Belt, the Illinois State Board of Education awarded 10 local school districts with a combined $485,000 for infrastructure improvements.

“School facility quality is an important factor in teacher retention and student learning,” said Belt (D-Swansea), chair of the Senate Education Committee. “When individuals are comfortable in their classroom, they are more successful. This state investment will directly contribute to an improved learning environment.”

Read more: Belt welcomes $485,000 in state grants for local school maintenance

New Belt law bans burning toxic chemicals in Illinois

• HB4818

EAST ST. LOUIS – Burning toxic synthetic chemicals will be banned thanks to a measure sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt that was signed into law Wednesday.

“PFAS can harm people and the environment,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This initiative stems from concerns that our neighbors have surrounding the waste incinerator in Sauget, which puts Metro East residents at risk of exposure to these harmful substances.”

The new law bans incinerating materials covered under the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Toxic Release Inventory that contain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS. Thermal oxidation for the purposes of pollution control and includes exemptions for the combustion of gases at landfills, medical waste incinerators and byproducts generated by municipal wastewater treatment facilities are not included.

Read more: New Belt law bans burning toxic chemicals in Illinois

New Belt-supported law closes loophole for catalytic converter thefts

• HB107

CHICAGO – To address the increase in car part thefts, State Senator Christopher Belt supported a proposal requiring people to keep record of the sale of catalytic converters that was signed into law Friday.

“Catalytic converter thefts have skyrocketed, leaving far too many working people without a reliable vehicle,” said Belt (D-Swansea).

House Bill 107 adds catalytic converters to the definition of recyclable metal, requiring record keeping on the purchase of catalytic converters. The license plate number of the vehicle, photographs or video of the seller, a verified name and address of the seller, and a signed declaration by the seller stating that the catalytic converter was not stolen will be required.

In addition, the new law prohibits a recyclable metal dealer from purchasing a catalytic converter with a value over $100 with cash.

According to a recent State Farm study, Illinois ranks in the top five states in the nation for catalytic converter thefts.

“Addressing the increase in stolen car parts is vital now more than ever,” Belt said. “This proposal tightens the law that people are finding a way around.”

The new law takes effect immediately.

Senator Belt kicks off summer book club

• Summer Book Club

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

“Reading keeps students engaged throughout the summer,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With summer break approaching, this reading club will keep kids learning to prepare for the next school year.”

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 office by Aug. 12. Everyone who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate from Senator Belt. 

“I hope students of all ages will take advantage of this program to make reading a habit and be rewarded for it,” Belt said. “Let’s enjoy the summer by reading and being creative.”

To receive a book club form, visit SenatorBelt.com to download and print the form. Parents can also call Belt’s office at 618-875-1212 to request a copy by mail.

Belt urges interested residents to call his office with any additional questions.