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.”

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.”

                                                    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.”

EAST. ST. LOUIS – As low-income families still face disproportionately high barriers to homeownership, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is spreading the word about the new SmartBuy mortgage and student loan assistance program.  

“For low-income families, homeownership is critical for creating a stable environment in which to raise a family,” Belt said. “Providing families with the tools to become homeowners and repay student loan debt is substantial. This is an opportunity that shouldn’t be left on the table, and I urge prospective homeowners to apply for this assistance program.”