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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.

SPRINGFIELD – A measure backed by State Senator Paul Faraci that would provide ongoing, accessible railroad safety education to students in Illinois’ public schools passed the Senate Tuesday.

“Providing students, families, faculty and staff with comprehensive railroad safety education is common sense for helping our youth avoid preventable injuries and fatalities,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “In the 52nd District, we have students who have to cross a set of train tracks every school day, and this is a great cause of worry for many of my community members. Empowering students to take control of their safety is the least we can do to reduce the chance of future accidents.”

House Bill 3743 would require all K-12 public schools to include railroad safety information in their student handbooks. A school would be able to opt out of this requirement if the school board determines that railroad safety is covered in the school's curriculum.

RANTOUL – State Senator Paul Faraci announced Rantoul has received a grant through the Safe Routes to School program to boost the health and safety of children by making walking, biking and rolling to school safer and more accessible.

“Encouraging students to walk and bike to school helps emphasize the importance of health, community and environmental stewardship for our youth, especially if they can gather in groups and make it a social experience with friends,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I’m thrilled to see infrastructure funding coming to the 52nd District, supporting the safety of our students and the broader Rantoul community.”   

Administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation using federal funds, Safe Routes to School supports projects and activities that improve safety and encourage active transportation options in areas around elementary, middle, and high schools. Improvements typically include new and upgraded sidewalks, efforts to reduce speeding and other traffic offenses, public education, and outreach programs.