Belt law to bring climate and clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt championed a new law that will establish the Justice40 Oversight Committee to bring forth federal climate and clean energy investments to disadvantaged communities.

“Representing a district with various disadvantaged communities, this initiative has the potential to enhance these affected areas,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “By creating this committee, residents can be assured that Illinois is taking action and prioritizing investments in climate and clean energy in our most vulnerable communities.”

The federal government created the Justice40 initiative to confront and address decades of underinvestment in disadvantaged communities. The initiative is to deliver at least 40% of the overall benefits from federal investments in climate change and clean energy to disadvantaged communities.

The new law will create the Justice40 Oversight Committee to advance this federal initiative in the state. The committee will be responsible for compiling findings, conclusions and recommendations regarding environmental justice and uses of federal funds for climate change and clean energy purposes.

“This shows that Illinois is ahead of the game when it comes to transitioning to a clean energy economy,” said Belt. “It further ensures the most vulnerable communities are not left behind while doing so.”

House Bill 2487 was signed on Friday and goes into effect immediately.

Belt encourages local agencies to apply for OSLAD grant

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt is urging agencies across the 57^th District to apply for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants.

“Visiting local parks is one of the best ways to get out to explore nature and spend time outdoors,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It is important that our parks stay accessible to all but at times, park development projects can be costly. I encourage local agencies to apply for OSLAD funding so parks in the Metro East can remain well-maintained and welcoming to all.”

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources will be accepting applications for Open Space Land Acquisition and Development, or OSLAD, grants through Aug. 31.

The program offers state-financed funding assistance to local governmental agencies for acquisition and/or development of land for public parks and outdoor recreation areas. A total of $56 million is available for this round of OSLAD grants. In addition, IDNR will once again provide funding to cover 100% of eligible projects located in economically distressed communities.

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 31 and should be submitted to IDNR. For more information on the OSLAD program, visit IDNR’s website.

Belt law to make amusement parks safer

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt is making amusement rides and attractions safer for families, thanks to a new law that will require amusement parks to have at least one staff member qualified to administer CPR.

“This law will enhance safety standards and ensure the well-being of visitors at amusement parks statewide,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It is important that we acknowledge the need for effective emergency response in high-risk environments and that we implement policies that will ensure the safety of our community members and state visitors.”

The new law requires a park’s owner or operator to ensure that at least one operator working on site has been certified to provide first aid and CPR.

“This law is crucial for safeguarding the lives of people looking to simply enjoy an amusement park,” said Belt. “Providing trained personnel who can effectively handle medical emergencies will offer peace of mind to park-goers and their families.”

The governor signed House Bill 3097 into law on Friday, June 30 and it goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

Belt measure to increase accountability of housing authorities signed into law

SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Christopher Belt will increase transparency and accountability in the operation of housing authorities in the state.

“Everyone should have access to affordable housing. No one should have to question whether they will have a roof over their heads to protect them and their families,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “With more accurate wait list information, we can streamline the housing application processes and promote fair and equitable access to affordable housing opportunities.”

A housing authority is the local administrative agency for housing assistance programs funded by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development. Programs include housing choice voucher programs and public housing. This new law changes the Housing Authorities Act, requiring that every housing authority collect data on the number of vacant rental units within each housing project, as well as information on whether each wait list maintained by the authority is open or closed.

“Over 224,000 people rely on housing assistance in the state, which includes a large number of my constituents in the 57^th District,” said Belt. “It’s only right that these housing authorities start providing this crucial information. This will build a stronger, more transparent housing system that meets the needs of Illinois residents using this assistance.”

Senate Bill 1367 was signed Friday and takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.