SPRINGFIELD – Unfair insulin costs are taking a toll on those who are forced to pay the excessive price for this life-saving prescription drug. State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) voted to change that Tuesday.

Senator Bennett co-sponsored Senate Bill 667, which would cap patients’ out-of-pocket costs at $100 for a 30-day supply.

“People with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes need the medication,” Senator Bennett said. “Regular price hikes make insulin difficult to afford, and as lawmakers we have a responsibility to step in and protect the well-being of Illinoisans that depend on insulin.”

According to the American Diabetes Association, there are more than 30 million Americans who have diabetes, with 1.25 million having Type 1 diabetes. The condition requires daily administration of insulin to survive.

“This measure will provide financial relief to diabetics all across the state,” Bennett said. “The passage of this legislation is encouraging to continue to push for reform that will lower the cost of prescription drugs for everyone.”

Senate Bill 667 was spearheaded by State Senator Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill).

The legislation has passed the Senate and now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.

CHAMPAIGN – Prairie Rivers Network (PRN) presented State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) with the PRN Outstanding Public Servant award on Friday, Oct. 25, 2019 in recognition of the Senator’s continued commitment to being an environmental advocate.

“I am honored to be recognized on behalf of Prairie Rivers Network,” Bennett said. “This organization works to protect water, heal land and inspire change, and I am grateful to work with them on environmental issues that we face in Illinois.”

The award honors elected officials and public servants that not only advocate for good environmental policies, but also see the problems facing Illinois and become part of the solution.

Bennett’s Coal Ash Pollution Prevention Act, which was signed into law this summer, made him a prime recipient for this award. Bennett championed this legislation to be proactive about the hazardous coal ash pollution threatening Illinois lakes, rivers and streams. Negotiations included PRN and they were a substantial ally in the process.

“This award is a testament to the work we have accomplished together,” Bennett said. “I look forward to continued collaborations with this organization on issues that will help protect our environment.”

RANTOUL - The Village of Rantoul will receive a $750,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) to renovate and expand the Forum Fitness Center in Rantoul, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Thursday.

“The Forum Fitness Center offers a variety of sports and workout options to residents in our community,” Bennett said. “This grant will help improve the facility and attract new members to the center.”

Improvements to the exterior of the building include installation of new windows and double doors. Building expansion will feature a 3,000-square-foot group fitness addition. Interior improvements include installation of new electrical services in the cardio room. Renovations include the installation of a new HVAC system for the gymnasium and the locker rooms.

“Funding to renovate facilities like the Forum Fitness Center in Rantoul will give residents the opportunity to take advantage of local recreation,” Bennett said. “The commitment from our state’s leadership to ensure families and individuals have access to public recreational spaces is truly outstanding.”

The Village of Rantoul has been selected to receive one of eight grants from IDNR’s Park and Recreational Facility Construction Act grant program, totaling more than $10.1 million in grants.