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

“Reading over the summer helps students keep their minds sharp and ready for the new school year,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I’m excited to launch this Summer Book Club to encourage young readers and reward those who join and complete their reading goals.”

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 Belt’s East St. Louis office by Aug. 15. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and a certificate from Senator Belt.

Summer Book Club forms are available to download at SenatorBelt.com. People with questions can reach out to Belt’s East St. Louis office at (618) 875-1212 or Swansea office at (618) 416-2452.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt is co-sponsoring a measure that will prohibit students from using their cellphones in school during instruction time by the 2026-2027 school year.

“Many kids aren’t learning when they have the option to sit on their phone and use social media instead of paying attention in class,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “This measure gives considerable choice to the individual school district, allowing them to adopt a plan that works best for them.”

SWANSEA – State Senator Christopher Belt secured a combined total of over $8 million for multi-use paths and bike trails in Belleville, O’Fallon and Venice. The grant was awarded under the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

“These investments are a direct result of strong local partnerships and thoughtful planning at the community level,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “I’m grateful to help bring state resources home to support projects that enhance quality of life across our district."

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Christopher Belt passed a measure through the Senate to make college admissions for high school juniors, seniors and community college transfer students a simpler process.

“To encourage more students to stay in Illinois for college, we need to make applying as simple and accessible as possible,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “We’ve made great strides in improving the admissions process in recent years, and this measure moves us even further in the right direction.”