SPRINGFIELD– State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) announced Monday the expansion of support to childcare workers and other essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“During this crisis, essential workers still need someone to watch their children. Additional support for these hardworking individuals is critical,” Belt said. “This ensures their kids are still safe while increasing the affordability for care.”

All essential workers in health care, human services, essential government services, and essential infrastructure now qualify for the state’s Child Care Assistance. Most of the expenses of emergency childcare centers and homes will be covered. This expansion of eligibility includes those working as nurses and doctors, supporting staff in hospitals, grocery store clerks and food producers.

Emergency childcare centers will receive additional reimbursement rates above their usual pay rate. Childcare centers interested in re-opening as emergency child centers are able to apply for a permit through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. To apply visit: www2.illinois.gov/sites/OECD.

Home childcare providers do not need a permit and can serve up to six children.

For more information on assistance available at the Department of Human Services visit: DHS.illinois.gov/helpishere and coronavirus.illinois.gov

SPRINGFIELD – To ensure a complete count of Illinois residents in the upcoming census, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) hosted an informational event regarding the 2020 Census at East St. Louis Community College Center on Wednesday.

"One way to reach hard-to-count areas is to inform residents about the importance of being counted," Belt said. "Most people are not aware that if they are not counted, millions of dollars in funding for our schools and hospitals is at risk."

SPRINGFIELD – To increase employment opportunities for women, minorities and people with disabilities, State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville) is sponsoring a measure to change the job interview process at state agencies.

“Agencies must keep diversity in mind when they interview job candidates,” Belt said. “People tend to hire candidates that look like them. That means one-dimensional interview panels are far less likely to create a diverse workplace.”

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents who have been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal would be able to receive special license plates under an initiative sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Centreville).

“It’s important that we recognize these officers’ commendable service, and allowing the Secretary of State to issue these special plates is one way we can show our thanks,” Belt said. “These officers put their lives on the line for our country. It would be an honor for the State of Illinois to be able to give them this small token of our appreciation.”