EAST ST. LOUIS – In an effort to eliminate barriers for military members and their families, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has expedited the licensing review process for service members and their spouses who are seeking professional licensure in Illinois.

In 2019, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) sponsored House Bill 1652, which provided military personnel and their spouses with a designated liaison from the Department to ensure their license applications are managed efficiently.

“Our military families have already made great sacrifices to protect our freedoms. Providing them with the resources they need to start their careers in Illinois is the least we could do,” Belt said. “When a military family relocates to Illinois, it’s crucial that we make their transition as easy as possible.” 

Read more: Belt legislation eases licensing process for military members and spouses

SPRINGFIELD – State Senators Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) announced a new law will require pharmaceutical and insurance companies to cap insulin prices for Illinois residents with diabetes starting Jan. 1, 2021. 

“For years, pharmaceutical companies took advantage of the millions of Illinois residents who depend on insulin to live,” Belt (D-Centreville) said. “Because of the passage of Senate Bill 667, Illinois residents who need insulin will no longer be subjected to price gouging and other predatory practices.”

Read more: Belt, Crowe announce insulin costs will be capped at $100 per month starting Jan. 1, 2021

MARYVILLE – With winter weather fast approaching, State Senators Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) recommend bookmarking the Illinois Department of Transportation’s GettingAroundIllinois.com website for continually updated information on road conditions. 

“We all know how dangerous roads can become in the wintertime,” Belt said. “During snowy or icy conditions, Getting Around Illinois is a great tool for determining whether your trip out is safe.”

Read more: Belt, Crowe recommend Getting Around Illinois for updates on winter road conditions

                                                    Round 2 applications now being accepted by DCEO

MARYVILLE – To mend digital inequities in rural areas of the Metro East region, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) and State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) are urging local organizations to apply for a portion of $50 million in available funding through the second round of the Connect Illinois broadband expansion program.

“High-speed internet is one of the most important resources for households and businesses, especially in our current climate,” Belt said. “To ensure that no child, family or business is left behind, I encourage eligible applicants in the Metro East area to apply for the Connect Illinois program.”

Read more: Belt, Crowe highlight rural broadband grant opportunities