SPRINGFIELD – A new law supported by State Senator Paul Faraci establishes a new state agency – the Department of Early Childhood – to streamline the administration of early childhood education, care programs and services.

“Right now, early childhood programs are offered in piecemeal by three different state agencies,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “Streamlining this down to one department makes it easier for parents to figure what resources are available.”

Beginning July 1, the law creates the Department of Early Childhood, which will focus on administering early childhood education programs. The new agency is dedicated to making access to such state programs easier for parents and providers to navigate.

CHAMPAIGN – To emphasize the importance of learning throughout the summer, State Senator Paul Faraci is hosting a Summer Book Club to encourage students to read and continue their studies during the summer vacation.

“This is a great opportunity for youngsters to receive a reward for reading all summer,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I encourage families with children to participate and join the 60 students who completed the Summer Book Club last year.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form, and return the form to Faraci’s office by Aug. 16. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Faraci.

Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorFaraci.com/SBC. People with questions can reach out to Faraci’s office at (217) 355-5252 or (217) 442-5252.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci voted for the Fiscal Year 2025 budget on Sunday.

“I voted for a budget that is fiscally sound and invests in Champaign and Vermilion counties,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “Our investments will make college more affordable for both community college and university students from all backgrounds and keep more students in Illinois after graduation.”

The Fiscal Year 2025 budget allocates enough funding to allow nearly all community college students and nearly half of students at public universities at or below median income levels to have their tuition and fees covered through need-based financial aid.

“As a 45-year resident of Champaign, I see the positive impact the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Parkland College and nearby Danville Area Community College have on our community and local economy. Now, the benefits of having these great colleges close-by can be enjoyed by every local student who wants to attend, regardless of their financial background.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci’s measure to extend utility bill relief so more Illinois households can receive assistance advanced through the Senate.

“If we want to help keep people in their homes, especially those on a fixed income, this is the right thing to do,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “The extension of this program is an investment in the health and well-being of our community.”

Faraci’s measure would eliminate the scheduled sunset date on a state fund that finances two needs-based assistance programs – the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP). The fund was set to shut down Jan. 1, 2025.