Faraci sworn in during 104th General Assembly inauguration

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign) took the oath of office and was sworn in for a new term Wednesday as the Illinois Senate officially began the 104th General Assembly. He released the following statement:

“It’s an incredible honor to take the oath of office and continue representing the hardworking people of the 52^nd District. I am deeply committed to addressing the challenges our communities face and working to create meaningful opportunities for every resident.

“As we begin this new term, I want to honor the memory and legacy of State Senator Scott Bennett, whose dedication to service and compassion for others made an incredible impact on our district and the state.

“This session, I will build upon his work to prioritize community-focused initiatives, fostering economic and workforce development, supporting our labor force, strengthening agriculture, championing both higher and public education and improving access to resources for individuals with disabilities. These sectors are crucial to building stronger, more sustainable communities across Illinois.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues to deliver real solutions for the people of our state. Together, we will advance policies that empower our communities and improve the lives of all Illinoisans.”

Faraci measure expands job opportunities for young workers

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci is advancing legislation to make it easier for Illinois park districts and municipal recreation departments to hire young workers for seasonal jobs and youth sports programs.

“This measure removes unnecessary barriers that make it harder for teens to gain work experience and park districts to run summer programs,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “It’s a win for families, young workers and our communities.”

Faraci’s measure would allow 14- and 15-year-olds to work summer jobs – such as lifeguards or referees – for Illinois park districts and recreational departments without a 21-year-old present, as long as an 18-year-old is on-site and no alcohol or tobacco is being sold on the premises. It would also allow minors to officiate youth sporting events, as long as a 21-year-old supervisor is on-call.

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Faraci applauds $600,000 in funding for local park

• OSLAD
• Garfield Park

DANVILLE – The City of Danville is among the 100 recipients of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants distributed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, State Senator Paul Faraci announced Thursday.

“Our parks and outdoors spaces are vital for providing families and friends with areas to gather and connect,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This funding ensures Garfield Park will continue to be a source of activity and fun for future generations to enjoy.”

More than $55 million in state grants are being awarded for 100 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities. In Faraci’s district, Garfield Park in Danville is set to receive $600,000 through the OSLAD program for revitalization efforts.

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Faraci applauds over $1.7 million in funding coming to local parks

• OSLAD
• Champaign County

CHAMPAIGN – The Champaign Park District and the Champaign County Forest Preserve District are among the 100 recipients of Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grants distributed through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, State Senator Paul Faraci announced Thursday.

“All communities deserve the same opportunities to flourish,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This funding will help create spaces where everyone – regardless of ability – can come together and connect. I’m proud to support these projects and the opportunities they will bring to the residents of our district.”

More than $55 million in state grants are being awarded for 100 local park projects throughout Illinois to help communities acquire land and develop recreational opportunities. In Faraci’s district, the Champaign Park District will receive $600,000 to develop an All Abilities Activity Hub, while the Champaign County Forest Preserve will be awarded over $1.1 million through the OSLAD program.  

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