CHAMPAIGN – Health Alliance, the largest insurer in Central and Southern Illinois, recently announced its customers with large group, small group, self-funded and Medicare Supplement plans who have already renewed their policies for 2025 will see their coverage end by Dec. 31, 2025, with no opportunity to renew. In response, State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign) released the following statement:

“I am deeply concerned and disappointed by Health Alliance’s recent decision to end health care coverage for many of its members. The impact of this is far-reaching, as it places thousands of people at risk of losing critical health coverage. I urge Health Alliance, which has been a long-trusted provider for families across our communities, to protect their members, rather than leaving them with uncertainty surrounding the care they need.

“We must work together to ensure the thousands of impacted individuals, including 600 Health Alliance employees, are not left vulnerable. I stand ready to support a solution that keeps our constituents’ health and well-being at the forefront.”

SPRINGFIELD – Following the governor’s proposed budget address on Wednesday, State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign) issued the following statement:

“We must continue supporting the services that matter most to our communities, and the governor’s proposed budget is a solid starting point for ensuring we put Illinois residents first.

“K-12 education is the foundation of our future, and investing in our schools is investing in our children’s success. The governor’s budget reflects the importance of public education and takes steps to sustain efforts that prepare the next generation. The $350 million increase in evidence-based funding ensures Illinois families have access to quality schools and programs.

“Higher education serves as the primary economic driver in our community, and it’s essential we continue investing in our state’s colleges and universities. In the governor’s proposal, I’m glad to see a $44 million increase in funding for public universities and community colleges, ensuring all students have the opportunity to succeed. Supporting our institutions and their ability to provide high-quality education keeps students in Illinois, which further helps our economy.

“This budget also offers a framework to continue supporting people living with disabilities – an issue I, along with many families across the district, am passionate about. It’s imperative we maintain our investments in social services that help individuals with disabilities lead independent and fulfilling lives.

“Additionally, the proposed budget includes critical investments for the Department of Agriculture that will benefit our community by promoting sustainability, supporting economic growth and strengthening local agriculture. I’m proud to see funding for numerous initiatives across the state, including federal project expenses and $7.7 million for the UIUC-led iFAB Tech Hub, creating opportunities for job growth and agricultural innovation.

“While this budget is a positive step, ongoing negotiations are needed to ensure we build on this groundwork, addressing the needs of all communities across our state in a fair manner.”

CHAMPAIGN – In response to the announcement that the Soybean Innovation Lab, based at the University of Illinois in Urbana, will be closing due to the cessation of funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development, State Senator Paul Faraci (D-Champaign) released the following statement:

“I am deeply concerned by the impending closure of the Soybean Innovation Lab in Urbana, which will result in the loss of many high-skill jobs and undermine crucial research in global soybean development. This lab plays an essential role in advancing agricultural technology and strengthening U.S. agricultural markets.

“The termination of funding from USAID is a significant blow to our local workforce and international efforts to improve economic development through agriculture. I will continue to advocate for support to sustain vital research and explore solutions to protect these valuable jobs in our community.”

SPRINGFIELD – Legislation from State Senator Paul Faraci making it easier for Illinois park districts and municipal recreation departments to hire young workers for seasonal jobs and youth sports programs was signed into law.

“This change will give young people more opportunities to gain valuable work experience while helping our local park districts and recreation departments meet their seasonal staffing needs,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “It’s a win-win for our communities and teens looking to take their first steps in the workforce.”

Faraci’s measure will allow minors 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 will also allow minors to officiate youth sporting events, as long as a 21-year-old supervisor is on-call.