SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt is co-sponsoring a measure that will prohibit students from using their cellphones in school during instruction time by the 2026-2027 school year.

“Many kids aren’t learning when they have the option to sit on their phone and use social media instead of paying attention in class,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This measure gives considerable choice to the individual school district, allowing them to adopt a plan that works best for them.”

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt secured a combined total of over $8 million for multi-use paths and bike trails in Belleville, O’Fallon and Venice. The grant was awarded under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“These investments are a direct result of strong local partnerships and thoughtful planning at the community level,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I’m grateful to help bring state resources home to support projects that enhance quality of life across our district."

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure through the Senate to make college admissions for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students a simpler process.

“To encourage more students to stay in Illinois for college, we need to make applying as simple and accessible as possible,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We’ve made great strides in improving the admissions process in recent years, and this measure moves us even further in the right direction.”

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Christopher Belt passed a bill through the Senate that would strengthen prevailing wage rules to help workers receive higher pay.

“This key protection ensures workers are treated fairly and paid what they deserve for their labor,” said Belt (D-Swansea).  “We’re fixing a loophole that left too many employees at a disadvantage — because in Illinois, we stand for fairness and dignity on the job.”