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SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci’s measure that will modify how individuals with developmental disabilities are made aware of critical money-saving resources through the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program was signed into law Friday.

“This law will be essential for uplifting individuals with disabilities and their families so they can make real strides toward financial independence without violating SSI and Medicaid’s benefit eligibility rules,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “With just a small change, we’re providing tangible relief to residents who are looking to maximize saving for their future and ensuring the Scott Bennett ABLE Program is accessible to everyone in need.”

Under Faraci’s law, the Illinois Department of Human Services will be required to provide informational materials about the Senator Scott Bennett ABLE Program to all individuals receiving or applying for IDHS-funded disability services. This will include individuals who are placed in a facility licensed under specific Illinois statutes, such as the ID/DD Community Care Act – which governs immediate care facilities for people with developmental disabilities.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci is highlighting a new law he spearheaded that will honor the legacy and lasting impact of the late State Senator Scott Bennett by renaming the railroad trestle bridge on Kickapoo Rail Trail.

“Scott Bennett’s impact on not only East Central Illinois but also the entire state will never go unnoticed, and this is a small token of our appreciation toward his tireless efforts to the betterment of the 52nd District during his time as state senator,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “Scott was a mentor, friend and all-around good person, and I’m glad our communities will remember his legacy and memory for generations to come. No one is more deserving of this honor.”

Faraci’s law will honor Bennett’s memory in Vermilion County by designating the railroad trestle bridge on Kickapoo Rail Trail as the Senator Scott Bennett Memorial Bridge. It will also allow the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to erect plaques in recognition of the designation, pending the agency’s funding availability.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign) released the following statement in response to the Fiscal Year 2027 state budget passing the Senate Monday:

“Illinoisans have faced a difficult year financially, but lawmakers came together to pass a balanced budget that prioritizes affordability for working families and protects Illinoisans from future federal uncertainty.

“We understand the importance of quality, equitable education for residents, especially at a time when educational programs and resources are being threatened with federal funding cuts. I’m especially thankful we’re honoring our commitment to funding our public K-12 evidence-based funding model, ensuring schools across East Central Illinois receive the resources they need.  Additionally, for low-income students interested in seeking higher education, investments are included in the budget to support PELL grants, in turn expanding access to college for those most in need.

“To supplement this support, we are also investing millions for school lunch programs, assisting households with EBT payments, and reinstating the back-to-school sales holiday tax this summer, ensuring families aren’t burdened with food insecurity or left wondering how they will afford basic necessities for their student.

“I’m also pleased to see substantial investments in services and resources to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their autonomy, empowering them to continue living in the communities they call home while they receive much-needed care. 

“While we still have work to do, this budget reflects lawmakers’ efforts to prioritize affordability for all Illinoisans and continue moving the state toward financial stability.”

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans who are on default on their student loan repayments may soon see increased opportunities for employment and retention at state agencies, thanks to a measure led by State Senator Paul Faraci that passed the Senate Thursday.  

“Putting too much focus on student loan repayment status in hiring and procurement may very well be deterring Illinoisans from applying for jobs with the state,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “These processes are already difficult for both agencies and residents, so we shouldn’t be inadvertently following red-tape policies that keep otherwise qualified residents from our state workforce.”

Under current Illinois law, any state agency employee whose student loans are in default for a period of six or more months, and in an amount of $600 or more, is required to make a satisfactory loan repayment arrangement with the loan’s cosigner or guarantor. If the employee fails to establish a satisfactory repayment arrangement prior to their sixth month of employment, the agency is required to terminate the  individual’s employment.