CHICAGO – Understanding that the college admissions process can be difficult for students to navigate, State Senator Christopher Belt worked to make the process easier for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students.

“Investing in our students is by far the best return on investment the government could get,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This is essentially an automatic admissions program that students can opt in to. It will really help streamline the process for students and their families.”

State Senator Christopher Belt announced two small Metro East manufacturers have been selected to participate in and receive state funding through the Made in Illinois Grant Program.

“Small and mid-sized manufacturers need a fair shot to keep doing what they do best,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This support helps them stay strong, keep people working and build up our local economy.”

The Made in Illinois Grant Program provides matching grants of up to $50,000 to help small and mid-sized manufacturers invest in strategic projects that fuel innovation, increase productivity and enhance competitiveness. In 2025, the program awarded $1.35 million to 29 manufacturers employing a combined 1,120 individuals supporting projects that represent a total investment of over $38.3 million statewide.

State Senator Christopher Belt announced that over $4.5 million in state grant funding has been awarded to support clean energy development and workforce initiatives across the 57^th Senate District.

“With the state moving full speed ahead on green energy, it’s only right that our communities receive the support we need to be part of that future,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We’re not asking for special treatment — just our fair share.”

The Equitable Energy Future Grant Program delivers seed and pre-development funding to equity-eligible contractors, nonprofits and cooperatives working on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in low-income and historically disadvantaged communities. The program is a critical part of the state’s work to expand access to clean energy while reducing systemic barriers to development.

 Sen. Belt Floor Speech House BIll 2987

SPRINGFIELD – In direct response to the deadly tornado that struck an Amazon warehouse in Edwardsville in December 2021, State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure through the Illinois Senate creating the Warehouse Tornado Preparedness Act.

“This tragedy exposed serious gaps in emergency preparedness at large warehouse facilities,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This measure ensures no worker in Illinois will be left unprotected the next time severe weather strikes.”