Belt-backed law enhances Grocery Initiative Act

SPRINGFIELD – With strong support from State Senator Christopher Belt, a new law signed Wednesday aims to spur economic growth and enhance benefits under the Grocery Initiative Act – a law Belt led in 2023.

“Grocery stores that open in or around food deserts need all the support possible in order to remain accessible for residents,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This law recognizes the importance of the Grocery Initiative Act and allows these stores to qualify for additional assistance from the state.”

The new law expands eligibility for incentives under the Illinois Grocery Act, allowing grocery stores located in an Enterprise Zone — a designated area with available tax incentives aimed at stimulating economic growth in underserved areas — to apply for the High Impact Business program. Previously, grocery stores could only apply for assistance under the Grocery Initiative Act or the HIB program. Under this new law, eligible grocers can apply to both programs, making it easier for stores to open and thrive within food deserts.

Read more: Belt-backed law enhances Grocery Initiative Act

Over $280 million in road improvements coming to the Metro East region thanks to Belt

SWANSEA — Building upon the smart infrastructure investments supported by State Senator Christopher Belt, the Illinois Department of Transportation announced an investment of over $280 million in road and bridge improvement projects across the 57^th District.

“Infrastructure improvements like these outlined in IDOT’s Multi-Year Plan will enhance transportation safety, boost the local economy and improve the quality of life for residents overall,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It is always great to see these projects underway throughout the district, knowing the positive impact they will have in the region.”

As part of IDOT’s Multi-Year Plan under Rebuild Illinois, the district Belt represents will see 45 infrastructure improvements totaling more than $281 million next year.

These projects are part of IDOT’s Multi-Year Plan, a $40 billion investment in construction projects for the next six fiscal years. The project invests in all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, aviation, transit, freight and passenger rail, waterways, as well as bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

“It’s important we modernize our infrastructure to ensure the reliability and safety of our roads in the Metro East for years to come,” said Belt.

Find a full list of projects slated for the 57^th Senate District here.

Belt commends creation of Illinois Department of Early Childhood

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• early childhood education

SPRINGFIELD – In order for Illinois to provide equitable access to high-quality early childhood education and care services, State Senator Christopher Belt supported a measure signed into law Tuesday, creating the Illinois Department of Early Childhood.

“It is essential that we provide our youth with quality care and education at the earliest age possible,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “In doing so, this lays the foundation for a child’s learning journey and can result in long-term success for children.”

Senate Bill 1 creates the Department of Early Childhood beginning July 1. This department will be the lead agency for administering and providing early childhood education and care programs and services to children and families in Illinois. Additionally, all other state agencies dealing with early childhood services will have these programs transferred to the Department of Early Childhood by July 1, 2026.

Read more: Belt commends creation of Illinois Department of Early Childhood

Belt applauds federal funding for local mental health clinic

BELLEVILLE – State Senator Christopher Belt announced that Chestnut Health Services Inc., in Belleville has been selected to participate in a federal program designed to expand and improve access to coordinated mental health care and substance use treatment.

“As the awareness of mental health continues to grow, so does the need for helpful, easily accessible services,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “It is nice to see support on the federal level to help us grow these resources so we can ensure our residents are receiving the care they deserve.”

The Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic Demonstration Program provides reimbursement through Medicaid for the full cost of services that CCBHCs provide – at higher rates than what they previously received for Medicaid customers. This program is estimated to bring an additional $150 million into Illinois’ behavioral health system. CCBHCs provide access to a range of services and care coordination through evidence-based practices and other supports based on a community needs assessment. This includes crisis services that are available 24/7. CCBHCs are also required to provide routine outpatient care within 10 business days.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available by calling or texting 988, or via chat at 988lifeline.org. To learn how to get support for mental health or substance use issues, visit FindSupport.gov. Locate treatment providers by visiting FindTreatment.gov or calling 800-662-HELP (4357).