SPRINGFIELD – Every second counts when a loved one goes missing, but for individuals with developmental disabilities, finding them quickly can be even more challenging. State Senator Paul Faraci is aiming to change that by creating the Golden Search Awareness Program, ensuring families, caregivers and communities have the tools and awareness necessary to bring missing people home safely.

“When someone with a developmental disability goes missing, time and awareness are critical,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “This legislation will ensure law enforcement, families and the public know how to respond, giving our most vulnerable neighbors a better chance at being found quickly and safely.”

Currently, Illinois relies on broad alert systems such as the AMBER Alert and Silver Alert, which do not always account for the unique needs of individuals with developmental disabilities. Faraci’s measure would establish a Golden Search Task Force, which would work to implement a statewide awareness program in coordination with the Endangered Missing Person Advisory. This initiative would help educate communities, law enforcement and organizations that support individuals with disabilities, making certain they know how to recognize and respond when someone with developmental disabilities goes missing.

For families of individuals with disabilities, this bill is more than just policy – it is peace of mind. By improving public awareness and coordination across agencies, Senate Bill 1548 would ensure Illinois is better prepared to respond when vulnerable individuals go missing. With a streamlined and widely recognized system, the hope is that Illinois can also work with neighboring states to create a more unified, effective response.

“No family should have to experience the fear and uncertainty of a missing loved one alone,” said Faraci. “The Golden Search Awareness Program is a vital step in protecting our most vulnerable residents so they can return home safely.”

Senate Bill 1548 passed the Senate State Government Committee Wednesday.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci is announcing a new state program that will help all Illinois college students prepare for graduate school and in-demand careers.

“It is unfortunate to see gifted students’ dreams and career choices limited simply because they can’t afford the classes that would prepare them for graduate school entrance exams or for professional license exams,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I am pleased to see Illinois making this $10 million investment to help our best and brightest succeed regardless of their ability to pay for graduate and professional prep classes.”

The Prepare for Illinois' Future Program is the result of a commitment by the State of Illinois, Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and leading global education company Kaplan to provide free test preparation courses to students enrolled in Illinois’ public universities as well as five community colleges. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has already onboarded the program.

CHAMPAIGN – A major step forward for the Champaign-Urbana area began Sunday with the launch of the Illinois Department of Transportation’s long-awaited I-57/I-74 interchange modernization project. While temporary disruptions are expected, State Senator Paul Faraci has assured local residents and commuters this project will deliver a safer, more efficient transportation system for the community.

“This is a project we’ve needed for a long time,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “The I-57/I-74 interchange is a lifeline for our communities, connecting major routes that support local businesses, freight and everyday commuters. By modernizing this infrastructure, we’re not only addressing the traffic bottlenecks that have been an ongoing challenge, but we’re also laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and improved safety in our communities.”

The nearly 60-year-old interchange has struggled to accommodate the growing traffic demands of both residents and freight trucks, with nearly 40,000 vehicles traveling through it every day. As a result, congestion, safety concerns and operational inefficiencies have plagued this critical transportation hub for years. This modernizing project, including the construction of new flyover ramps and bridge upgrades, is designed to alleviate these issues, improve safety and ensure a smoother flow of traffic for all travelers.

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.”