SPRINGFIELD – A measure sponsored by State Senator Christopher Belt that would increase transparency and accountability in the operation of housing authorities in the state passed the Senate Wednesday.

“Access to safe and affordable housing is a fundamental human right, and this is something that shouldn’t have to be a guessing game for people,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “By requiring housing authorities to collect and report data on vacancies and wait lists, we can better understand the housing needs of our communities and ensure that resources are being allocated effectively.”

This measure would change the Housing Authorities Act, requiring that every housing authority under the act collect data on the number of vacant rental units within each housing project as well as information on whether each wait list maintained by the authority is open or closed.

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt announced that the Illinois Secretary of State has awarded nearly $2.5 million to the Metro East Auto Theft Task Force to combat carjacking and vehicle thefts in the area.

“Carjacking and vehicle thefts are serious crimes that threaten the safety and well-being of our community,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I am grateful to the Secretary of State’s office for recognizing the importance of this issue and for providing crucial support to help prevent this issue.”

The funding originates from the Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention and Insurance Verification Council, which is overseen by the Secretary of State. The Secretary of State’s office convenes regular meetings of council members and awards funding to assist law enforcement entities to combat carjacking and prevent motor vehicle thefts.

The Metro East Auto Theft Task Force is a collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies in the Metro East region and is designed to investigate and prevent auto thefts, carjacking and related crimes. In the comings weeks, the task force will see a total of $2,456,527 to help with their efforts.

“There is no single solution, but these grants give law enforcement needed financial resources, which will provide a greater sense of focus and effort to recover stolen vehicles and prevent carjackings that have been occurring all too frequently throughout our state,” said Illinois Secretary of State, Alexi Giannoulias. “People doing something so routine as getting in their car and driving shouldn’t have to fear that they’ll be robbed of their vehicle at gunpoint. Working together, we will continue to not only make our roads safer but also our communities, neighborhoods and business districts.”

To learn more about carjacking and auto thefts in the state and for more information about the grant, click here.

SPRINGFIELD – Liquor delivery services will be expanded thanks to a measure championed by State Senator Christopher Belt that was signed into law Friday.

“We have continuously taken strides to uplift our small businesses, and this is a big win for Illinois bars and restaurants,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This expansion allows businesses to bring in more revenue and increases access for people across the state.”

In partnership with the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, Belt’s initiative will eliminate state and local fees for liquor delivery throughout Illinois. Additionally, it brings parity for liquor delivery between home-rule and non-home rule municipalities to regulate liquor delivery.

Senate Bill 1001 also lowers the licensing fees for wineries to $750 if renewed online and $900 for initial or non-online certification. Under a law passed in 2021, the fees were raised to $1,200 if renewed online and $1,500 for initial licenses and non-online.

“As more shoppers rely on home delivery than ever before, it’s important we make it easier for retailers to meet their needs,” said Rob Karr, president and CEO of Illinois Retail Merchants Association. “This bill will ease hurdles by streamlining regulations and removing burdensome fees. We appreciate Senator Belt for his leadership on this issue, especially as businesses seek stability following years of disruption caused by the pandemic.”

Senate Bill 1001 takes effect immediately.

EAST ST. LOUIS – With the strong support of State Senator Christopher Belt, St. Clair and Madison Counties will receive over $14.6 million to improve transportation as part of the historic Rebuild Illinois capital program.

“Key investments in downstate transportation will help our communities continue to grow and increase accessibility for residents,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “There’s nothing like driving on a newly paved road. We have to make sure our roads and bridges are safe, reliable and easy to travel.”

The third round of Rebuild Illinois grants provides $113.8 million for Downstate transit providers as part of the historic Rebuild Illinois capital program. Awards are supporting projects that include the purchase of new vehicles as well as the construction of stations and maintenance facilities that improve service.

St. Clair County Transit District will receive $10.8 million for the electrification of transit vehicles with supporting charging stations. Madison County will receive $3.75 million for transit communications and infrastructure upgrades.

To find a full list of projects, visit IDOT’s website.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt will serve as chair of the Senate Appropriations-Public Safety and Infrastructure Committee in the 103^rd General Assembly.

“In my new role I want to ensure taxpayer dollars are being used wisely during budget negotiations,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “As the southernmost Democrat, it’s important that downstate Illinois is not forgotten. I look forward to being a voice for downstate Illinois and increasing government transparency through the budgeting process.”

Prior to serving in the Illinois Senate, Belt had an 18-year career as a law enforcement officer. He spent 16 years with the St. Clair County Probation and Detention Center and two years as the regional deputy administrator of aftercare for the central and southern regions of Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD – To support small businesses, State Senator Christopher Belt championed a measure through the Senate that would expand liquor delivery services across Illinois.

“Bars and restaurants stimulate our local economies and are the heart of our communities,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Allowing liquor delivery services across the state benefits businesses and residents by increasing access and sales. We are working to lessen the burden businesses face by increasing the accessibility for revenue.”

SPRINGFIELD – Metro East residents will soon be able to receive a rebate on their monthly energy bill, thanks to a measure supported by State Senator Christopher Belt.

“People have to be able to efficiently heat and cool their homes during the hot summer months and cold winters,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “As energy prices rise across the country, we are providing residents with much needed assistance.”

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt (D-Swansea) released the following statement as State Superintendent of Education Dr. Carmen Ayala’s announced her retirement:

“As chair of Education, it has been an honor to work with Dr. Ayala to better the lives of students across Illinois. Her knowledge and passion for education and students showed through her work. Dr. Ayala overcame numerous trials and tribulations, consistently doing what was best for students.