CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is thrilled to announce that Champaign County is set to receive more than $960,000 in construction funding over the next three years. 

“This investment solidifies our state’s commitment to creating jobs and fostering growth during these extremely difficult economic times,” Bennett said. “These much-needed funds will be provided to Champaign County under the Rebuild Illinois program, giving our community the opportunity to invest in local priorities.”  

Rebuild Illinois, which Bennett helped pass in 2019, has allocated $1.5 billion in funding specifically for municipal- and county-level projects. Infrastructure investments improve safety, quality of life and the economy, which contributes to the revitalization of communities across the state.

“Investments in our transportation infrastructure allow our community and our state to stay competitive,” Bennett said. “I’m extremely proud to have been part of this tremendous state investment.”

Projects are selected and managed locally in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Transportation, and may include road and bridge improvements, traffic signal upgrades, new storm sewers and bike paths, sidewalk replacements and other long-term maintenance needs.

A complete list of local agencies and awards can be viewed here

DANVILLE – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) and Robinson Chiropractic are teaming up to host a healthy food drive in an effort to replenish the stock at The Dwelling Place for homeless and at-risk individuals in Vermilion County.

“The need for food has increased dramatically due to the economic effects of COVID-19, and that demand has especially impacted places like The Dwelling Place,” Bennett said. “Your donations can make a difference for folks in need in our community.”

According to The Dwelling Place, over 16,000 Vermilion County residents live in poverty and are at risk of homelessness, and over 500 children of school age are identified as homeless. Individuals and families who seek assistance for food are often in search of healthier options.

CHAMPAIGN – As restaurants continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is reminding residents to support their local business owners by picking up takeout, ordering delivery or dining safely indoors at a nearby eatery.

“Even in the best of times, restaurants are tough businesses to operate, and the COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating to our favorite restaurants,” Bennett said. “With more dining options available, I encourage you to dine locally this weekend and help businesses keep their doors open, lights on and staff paid.”

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) joined cancer survivors, caregivers and advocates at a virtual town hall Wednesday to discuss the need to limit co-pays and other cost-sharing requirements for prescription drugs.

Out-of-pocket health care costs are on the rise, with some Illinoisans unable to access the life-saving treatments and medications recommended by their providers. In 2021 alone, the American Cancer Society predicts that 74,980 Illinoisans will be diagnosed with cancer. Every Illinoisan with cancer—even those with good insurance plans—will face high out-of-pocket costs that make it harder for patients to afford their prescribed medication.

CHAMPAIGN – In search of answers for out-of-work residents in central Illinois and across the state, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) will question representatives from the Illinois Department of Employment Security regarding unemployment insurance issues during the pandemic at the Senate Labor Committee’s subject matter hearing Wednesday, Feb. 10 at 10 a.m.

The unprecedented flood of claims in the last year, when more than 1 million Illinoisans lost their jobs, overwhelmed the department.

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) will serve as chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee in the 102nd General Assembly.

“I’m honored to have been appointed as chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee,” Bennett said. “Higher education in all forms is vital for the workforce and economy, and I’m eager to serve in this new role.”

The Senate Higher Education Committee primarily deals with legislation and policy that will affect both state and private institutions.

Bennett is a longtime advocate for higher education institutions and has worked on legislation to provide opportunities for all students to find a path towards a secondary education. The district Bennett represents includes the University of Illinois, Parkland College and Danville Area Community College, which has given him a deep understanding of the needs of Illinois schools, staff and students, as well as their surrounding communities.

As committee chair, Bennett aims to create an equitable, accessible and innovative higher education ecosystem across Illinois that ensures students and communities thrive.

Bennett has previously served as chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and Senate Criminal Law Committee.

CHAMPAIGN – The Champaign Downtown Commercial District is one of 12 Illinois sites added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2020, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Wednesday.

“This designation is a tremendous recognition of the historic structures that continue to serve as part of the Downtown Commercial District in Champaign,” Bennett said. “I’m thrilled to see our community being recognized with this distinct honor for its history and architecture.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) was sworn into office today for another term in the Illinois Senate.

“With the beginning of the 102nd General Assembly, I am hopeful that we can come together as a body to help our communities move forward from COVID-19,” Bennett said. “I will continue addressing the challenges facing the people of central and east-central Illinois, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the 52nd District for another term.”