SPRINGFIELD – Illinois students will now have access to more educational resources and broader opportunities thanks to two laws championed by State Senator Mike Halpin.

“Through these new laws, students will be equipped with opportunities that suit their individual interests and aspirations,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “By breaking down traditional barriers and expanding access to student directory information, we can enable students to explore a broader range of educational options, which will help keep students in Illinois.”

One of the key components of Halpin’s legislation is expanding access to student directory information for public higher education institutions in Illinois. By Jan. 1, 2024, student directory information will be made available electronically through a secure centralized data system for official recruiting representatives of the armed forces and for public higher education institutions in Illinois. Access to this information enables colleges and universities to reach high school students more effectively, at a lower cost, and inform them of educational and career opportunities for their school.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s legislation creating the Rock Island Regional Port District was signed into law.

"Bringing about legislation that contributes to the betterment of our local community is the best part about being a legislator,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). "This legislation further equips the City of Rock Island with an instrument for fostering economic growth.”

The establishment of the Rock Island Regional Port District aligns with the goal of encouraging the use of waterways to efficiently transport goods and provide for economies of scale. The Port District will also boost recreation and tourism activities along the river. The Rock Island Regional Port District will be the 20th public port district in Illinois, joining the likes of the Waukegan Port District and the Illinois International Port District.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin and State Senator Neil Anderson announced the signing of Senate Bill 1750, aimed at creating incentives to recruit much-needed emergency medical technicians in Illinois fire departments, and the signing of a measure which allows a $500 tax credit for volunteer emergency workers.

"EMTs and volunteer firefighters are an important part of what keeps our communities safe," said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This was a concerted effort to give local fire protection districts additional tools that allow them to recruit and retain emergency service workers.”

Senate Bill 1750 requires the board of trustees of a fire protection district to reimburse the mandatory training expenses of EMTs, EMT-Is, A-EMTs, or paramedics who are employed by or under contract with the district. The mandatory training expenses will be covered by a state-funded program.

EMTs are essential first responders in emergency situations and are often the first point of contact for patients. However, many fire departments in Illinois are struggling to recruit and retain EMTs due to the high cost of training and certification. The new law provides a much-needed incentive for candidates to pursue a career in emergency medical services and helps ensure that fire departments have the necessary personnel to respond to emergencies and save lives.