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.”

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.”