Senate Moves to Formally Recognize Space Force as Official Military Branch
The Illinois Senate recently advanced legislation to formally recognize the United States Space Force as an official branch of the United States Armed Forces. House Bill 5640, sponsored by Senator Tom Bennett, changes state law to include the Space Force wherever the Armed Forces are mentioned.
The United States Space Force, established on December 20, 2019, is designated as an armed force within the Department of the Air Force. The Space Force’s mission is to ensure the U.S. can operate freely in space, manage space operations, and protect American interests. This legislation passed out of the Senate Veteran Affairs Committee unanimously on May 2 and now advances to the Senate floor for further action.
Suits & Sneakers for Cancer Awareness
On May 7, Senate lawmakers donned sneakers with their usual session attire and suit jackets to demonstrate solidarity with cancer patients and survivors throughout the state.
This unique fashion choice was inspired by the Coaches vs. Cancer program, a joint initiative between the American Cancer Society and the NCAA to raise cancer awareness. Each year, this initiative sees lawmakers sporting suits and sneakers at the State Capitol to support the ongoing advocacy campaign.
Senator Bennett said that the annual awareness day at the Capitol is a small but powerful gesture that hopefully brings attention to the tens of thousands of citizens touched by cancer each year. This initiative coincides with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network’s (ACS CAN) Cancer Action Day, a key advocacy event dedicated to empowering those affected by cancer to raise their voices at the state Capitol.
ISAC Provides Free FASFA Help for Students
High school students can access valuable resources to complete their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC).
The FAFSA form is an application process that determines how much federal financial aid a student is eligible to receive, which could include grants, scholarships, work-study funds, and loans.
ISAC aims to ensure that every student, especially high school seniors navigating the challenges of FAFSA, is aware of the free assistance available for financial aid and college planning. It’s important for students intending to pursue post-high school education this fall to know that there is still time to apply for financial aid. Students can visit ISAC’s website for free assistance with the college planning and financial aid process—including help completing the FAFSA or Alternative Application for IL Financial Aid.
How much do we owe?
As of the time of this writing, the State of Illinois owes $790,077,936.25 to state vendors, including 16,803 pending vouchers. This figure represents the amount of bills submitted to the office of the Comptroller and still awaiting payment. It does not include debts that can only be estimated, such as our unfunded pension liability which is subject to a wide range of factors and has been estimated to be more than $139 billion. At the same time last year, the state’s accounts payable stood at a little less than $2 billion.
Did You Know?
It is Law Enforcement Appreciation Month. In observance of Law Enforcement Appreciation Month this May, the Illinois State Police, together with law enforcement agencies across the state, are honoring the dedication and sacrifices of police officers.
This annual month of recognition was created to unite in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, to honor current and former officers, and to extend support to law enforcement personnel and their families. It’s also an occasion for citizens to express gratitude to the dedicated individuals who safeguard our communities while facing the inherent risks of police work.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, law enforcement ranks consistently among the top ten most hazardous jobs in the United States. In 2021 alone, the nation mourned the loss of 159 officers, with approximately 40% of fatalities resulting from assaults or homicides and another 40% from transportation incidents. Throughout the month, the Illinois State Police will be active on social media, sharing images and posts from various events designed to celebrate and recognize the brave men and women in law enforcement.
This Week in the 53rd District
State Senator Tom Bennett – Working full-time to represent you
