Press Releases

SPRINGFIELD – A measure supported by State Senator Paul Faraci that will provide ongoing, accessible railroad safety education to students in Illinois’ public schools was signed by the governor Friday.

“Throughout the 2025-2026 academic year, my office had a plethora of residents reach out who were concerned about the safety of students who have to travel over train tracks to get to school and back home,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “By getting this bill over the finish line, the state is reaffirming our commitment to the well-being of our youth and empowering them to take control of their safety, directly reducing the chances of a preventable injury or death happening.”

House Bill 3743 requires all K-12 public schools to include railroad safety information in their student handbooks. A school will be able to opt out of this requirement if the school board determines that railroad safety is covered in the school's curriculum.

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci announced the Illinois Workforce Pell, a new program expanding on the federal Pell Grant by allowing eligible students to use grant funding for short-term workforce training programs aligned with in-demand occupations, is now accepting applications.

“East Central Illinois’ workers are essential to our region, especially in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, health care and education, and this extended program will be critical for ensuring students graduate with the skills and knowledge to excel in today’s workforce,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “From medical specialists and agricultural technicians to teachers and machinery maintenance workers, Workforce Pell will support students through a range of programs while maximizing their access to Illinois’ most in-demand careers.”

By extending Pell eligibility to shorter-term programs, Workforce Pell broadens access to a more affordable path to a recognized credential, tied to employer-validated, high-skill, high-wage or in-demand jobs across the state. Illinois developed a rigorous approval process to ensure participating programs meet high standards for quality, workforce alignment and student outcomes – protecting students while ensuring public investments support credentials with strong labor market value.

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci announced 13 public libraries and school districts across Champaign and Vermilion counties are set to receive more than $375,000 for library services, enhanced programming and construction and security upgrades.

“Libraries are cornerstones of our communities, providing opportunities for lifelong learning, workforce development and meaningful connections,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “By investing in our libraries, we are expanding access to the resources families, students and job seekers rely on while building stronger, more vibrant communities in Central Illinois.”

More than $27 million was awarded to over 640 public libraries and 2,500 school libraries statewide through the Illinois Secretary of State’s Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants, Security and Construction Grants and School Library Grants. The funding will support libraries’ investments in reading materials, technology, literacy programs, infrastructure improvements and security upgrades. School library grants, awarded once every fiscal year, will support student learning and literacy from kindergarten through 12th grade.

In Faraci’s district, six public libraries and seven school districts received funding, including:

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Paul Faraci is urging park districts and municipalities in the 52nd District to apply for the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant.

“This program has acted as an essential pathway for ensuring folks have a variety of safe green spaces to enjoy,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “However, this funding goes beyond just obtaining recreational spaces; it also helps improve the infrastructure our residents, especially children, already use and supports outdoor activity for families with a range of needs, prioritizing community safety, health and accessibility.” 

This year, $37.5 million in grant funding is available for qualifying applicants. IDNR will provide funding to cover 90% of eligible projects in underserved communities. Eligible projects can include development or renovation of picnic tables, playgrounds, fishing piers, sports courts/fields, park paths and more. Communities whose parks have been damaged as a result of severe weather are encouraged to apply as well.