SPRINGFIELD – To help inmates transition out of prison, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Cahokia) is sponsoring legislation to require the Department of Corrections (DOC) to screen inmates for Medicaid eligibility before being released.

At this time, the Unified Code of Corrections requires the Department of Corrections (DOC) to give inmates the opportunity to apply for Medicaid at least 45 days before they are discharged and requires DOC to assist them in filling out their application.

“We all know that this population has chronic and severe health issue ranging from HIV, Diabetes, and Hepatitis A & B, among other illnesses,” Belt said. “Applying for Medicaid can be overwhelming, but assisting inmates by screening and helping them apply means we could prevent these health problems.”

Read more: Belt: Medicaid screening for inmates needs to be mandatory

SPRINGFIELD – Veteran families will receive an additional $25 for the cost of transporting and erecting a veteran headstone or memorial marker under a proposal sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Cahokia).

Currently, families only receive $100 to pay for the cost of transporting and erecting a veteran headstone or memorial marker.

“We must always recognize and respect the service of those who keep us safe,” Belt said. “Veterans went out and fought for our country, and some lost their lives in the line of duty, so giving the families additional assistance is the least we can do. As costs for services and memorials go up, we should periodically make sure our assistance does as well.”

Read more: Belt helps veterans’ families honor their lost loved ones

SPRINGFIELD – Impoverished school districts will receive more state aid under a proposal sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Cahokia) that advanced yesterday in the Senate Education Committee.

Currently, a school district is allowed to take 85 percent of the Equalized Assessed Valuations plus Corporate Personal Property Replacement Tax to determine their ability to issue bonds. Belt’s proposal, Senate Bill 1746, would count state aid as part of baseline on which a district can base that 85 percent calculation.

Read more: Belt pushes for poorer schools to issue more bonds

EDWARDSVILLE – The Metro East area of Illinois is in dire need of investment by the state, State Senator Christopher Belt said today as a hearing was underway to give local officials an opportunity to detail some of the region’s most pressing construction needs.

Read more: Belt: Illinois is in dire need of an upgrade