CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) reported Monday a new drive-thru testing site will open in Champaign Tuesday, May 19 to help individuals with COVID-19 symptoms and employees who support critical services. 

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TILTON - Beginning Tuesday, May 19, the Tilton Department of Motor Vehicles will offer a drive-through service to assist customers with vehicle registration sticker transactions, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) announced Friday.

“Since COVID-19 hit, the secretary of state’s office has encouraged residents to utilize their online services,” Bennett said. “By offering limited services at select DMVs, we are starting to see the progression forward, while still prioritizing customers and workers safety.”

Tilton was one of seven facilities selected to open due to the configuration of the building which allows for drive-through transactions. All employees will wear face masks and customers are encouraged to do the same.

The hours of operation will be Tuesday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Wednesday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to noon.

Bennett continues to urge the public to renew their vehicle registration stickers online at www.cyberdriveillinois.com for those customers who able. All expiration dates for driver’s licenses, ID cards and vehicle registrations have been extended at least 90 days after Driver Services facilities reopen.

Bennett also reminded residents the federal government extended the REAL ID deadline by one year. The deadline is now October 1, 2021.

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) joined hundreds of advocates from across Illinois virtually Thursday to speak on the plight of people with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This year’s advocacy day looked a little different than in years past, but it’s critical that advocates continue to raise their voices about issues that impact people with disabilities,” said Bennett. “The coronavirus pandemic has been overwhelming for everyone, but especially for individuals with disabilities whose routines have been disrupted abruptly.”

People with disabilities, immunosuppression and underlying chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of infection and subsequent death from COVID-19. Sen. Bennett, was among other legislators participating in the virtual rally, including Rep. William Davis (D-Homewood), Rep. Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), Rep. Grant Wehrli (R-Naperville), and Rep. Maurice West (D-Rockford) to offer guidance.

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CHAMPAIGN – In response to Illinois schools transitioning to e-learning for the remainder of the academic year, State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) is encouraging remote learners and educators to use the state’s new drive-up Wi-Fi hotspot map to find free wireless internet locations.

“Remote learning has been a challenge for students living in rural areas and they need a strong, reliable Wi-Fi connection to communicate with their teachers and complete their coursework,” Bennett said. “This interactive map is a great tool for the thousands of students participating in e-learning.”

Designed to assist students at every level who don’t have consistent internet access in their homes, the interactive map provides drive-up Wi-Fi locations throughout the state and specific log-in instructions for visitors. Students and their parents or guardians should continue to practice social distancing by remaining in their cars while using the hotspots.

“It’s important that we support our teachers, students, and parents during this difficult time, in addition to keeping students on course academically,” Bennett said.

The Wi-Fi map has multiple locations available in Champaign and Vermilion counties, including local colleges and libraries. To find a hotspot near you, click here.