EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt helped secure a $990,000 state grant through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program for R3 Development in East St. Louis and Southwestern Illinois College in Belleville.

“We want to make sure that people in our community have real access to the construction trades and the good-paying jobs that come with them,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “The Illinois Works Program opens doors for local residents to gain the skills they need to have a successful future.”

EAST ST. LOUIS – State Senator Christopher Belt is highlighting the announced $24 million in funding to expand Manufacturing Training Academies at community colleges and strengthen workforce training opportunities for high-demand manufacturing careers.

“Giving young people access to skills that translate directly into a job is exactly what we need to be focusing on in 2026,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “Southwestern Illinois College is already proving how community colleges can connect students to good-paying manufacturing careers, and this expansion will help more students gain the skills employers need right here at home.”

SPRINGFIELD – Part-time workers may be dissuaded from taking time off to donate a life-saving organ due to fears of losing their job. That will change come Jan. 1, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Christopher Belt ensuring part-time workers are covered for this time away.

“We need all the organ donors we can get,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I received a life-saving kidney transplant, so I know firsthand that donations save lives. This law removes barriers for people who are willing to step forward and give that gift.”

SPRINGFIELD – For too long, consumers have been left tricked when gyms and fitness centers offer a lifetime membership, only to change the terms of the deal after the fact. That will change come Jan. 1, thanks to a new law championed by State Senator Christopher Belt ensuring these businesses keep their word.

“If you run an honest business that provides quality service to your customers, then this law won’t concern you,” said Belt (D-Swansea).  "We are going after bad actors in the fitness industry looking to nickel and dime their customers to death with cheap gimmicks.”