Faraci expands Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program

SPRINGFIELD – Under a proposal led by State Senator Paul Faraci, savings accounts for people living with disabilities, known as the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program, will be expanded.

"This crucial measure seeks to enhance the ABLE program, empowering individuals living with disabilities and their families with greater financial independence, while safeguarding essential benefits,” said Faraci (D-Champaign).  “These changes reflect our commitment to inclusivity and support for those who need it most.”

House Bill 3641 makes expansive changes to the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program, which helps people living with disabilities and their families save and invest for expenses related to living with a disability without jeopardizing their eligibility for certain government benefits. The measure would allow people over the age of 18 to start an IL ABLE account and enable the accounts to conserve additional benefits, such as VA benefits.

“It's our duty to empower those living with disabilities and their families to navigate life's challenges with dignity and autonomy,” said Faraci.

Faraci serves as a chief cosponsor of House Bill 3641.

It passed the Illinois Senate with bipartisan support and awaits further action in the House. To read more about the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program, including benefits and eligibility, click here.

Veteran's Day Resource Fair and Program

Faraci receives legislator of the year award from school social workers

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci was proud to accept the 2023 Legislator of the Year award from the Illinois Association of School Social Workers.  

"I am proud of the work we were able to accomplish this year to protect students and educators,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “School social workers play an important role in supporting our children, especially children living with disabilities.”

The Illinois Association of School Social Workers is the largest school social work organization in the world. Each year they honor legislators in Illinois who have worked hard to promote and advocate for students in the public education system.

Senator Faraci sponsored House Bill 3680, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2024. Under Faraci’s measure, extra accommodations needed for a student during emergencies must be taken into account when developing their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a federal Section 504 plan. It also requires administrators and school support personnel to include a student's IEP team or Section 504 plan team when making a decision about whether to exclude the student from a walk-through lock down drill.

“I will continue to stand with educators across our state every step of the way,” said Faraci. “Educators’ roles are so important for our community, as they mentor the next generation and help them be successful.”

Faraci received the award at the Illinois Association of School Social Workers’ 53^rd Annual Conference in Springfield.

Community Grant Opportunity in Champaign County