CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is celebrating law enforcement officers across the state from May 15 to May 21 as part of Police Appreciation Week in Illinois.

“Our law enforcement officers play an integral role in our communities,” Bennett said. “I’m glad to offer my support and thank these officers during Police Appreciation Week for the work they do to keep Illinois residents safe.”

This week recognizes the dedication and sacrifice of local, state, and federal police officers and their service to the state. Law enforcement officers help prevent crime and provide assistance to those in need amongst an infinite amount of other tasks to encourage civic engagement and an investment in the well-being of all Illinoisans.

“Our law enforcement officers work tirelessly to protect our communities,” Bennett said. “I am continuously inspired by their extraordinary courage and dedication to putting their lives on the line to keep us safe each day.” 

Bennett supported Senate Resolution 914 declaring Police Appreciation Week in Illinois.

SPRINGFIELD – A measure supported by State Senator Scott Bennett to help former foster children get in contact with their former families was signed into law Friday.

“Youth in the foster care system often become very close with their foster families before they are adopted,” said Bennett (D-Champaign), a co-sponsor of the legislation. “These kids deserve access to the family that cared for them as they transition to a new family.”

The new law creates a process allowing former foster children to get in contact with their former foster parents and siblings by utilizing existing search and reunion services provided by the Department of Children and Family Services. DCFS is required to provide youth in care with an explanation of available search and reunion services within 30 days of their 18th birthday.

Read more ...

SPRINGFIELD – Students with disabilities and their families will receive more information on the resources available to them under a new law supported by State Senator Scott Bennett.

“Our state offers great resources for students with disabilities,” said Bennett (D-Champaign), a chief co-sponsor of the legislation. “We can further assist individuals with disabilities and their families by ensuring they are aware of all the financial services available to them.”

The Achieving a Better Life Experience program aims to encourage and assist individuals and families in saving private funds to support individuals with disabilities to maintain health, independence and quality of life. Additionally, the program provides secure funding for disability-related expenses to supplement insurance benefits and income.

Senate Bill 3474 requires school districts to provide informational material to the parents or guardians of students with disabilities about the ABLE account program.

“Caring for someone with a disability can become a heavy financial burden,” said Bennett. “The ABLE program sets students with disabilities up for success both in school and after graduation.”

The law is effective immediately.

SPRINGFIELD – A new law incentivizing Illinoisans to purchase vehicles manufactured in-state was signed Friday with support from State Senator Scott Bennett.

“We have wonderful manufacturers right here in Illinois that offer a wide variety of high-quality vehicles,” said Bennett (D-Champaign). “Encouraging consumers to purchase vehicles that are manufactured in-state is an easy way to spark our statewide economy.”

The new law, originally Senate Bill 3609, offers Illinoisans the opportunity to apply for a $25 rebate on the title fee for cars and passenger trucks manufactured in Illinois. Consumers will have one year from the month the vehicle was manufactured to apply for the rebate.

“This law will help our local manufacturers and promote economic growth in our communities,” Bennett said. “Residents that buy a vehicle manufactured in-state will have money put right back into their pockets.”

The law takes effect Jan. 1, 2024.