CHAMPAIGN – With Independence Day right around the corner, State Senator Scott Bennett is joining law enforcement officials in reminding people to celebrate safely and drive sober.

“Unfortunately, the holiday weekend can create dangerous driving situations when individuals choose to drive while impaired,” said Bennett (D-Champaign). “I encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly by booking a safe ride home or designating a sober driver if your celebrations include alcohol.”

The Illinois Department of Transportation launched a multimedia safety campaign – “It’s Not a Game” – that drives home the message there are no extra lives, no respawns and no second chances to get it right when you are behind the wheel.

Last year in Illinois during the July Fourth holiday period from July 2-5, there were 22 car wreck fatalities, which is the highest total in the last five years. Officials are urging residents to plan ahead to prevent a tragedy.

“Illinois State Police Troopers will be out in full force over the holiday weekend looking for impaired drivers,” said Illinois State Police Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Driving while impaired due to alcohol or drugs can be a costly decision that puts your life and the lives of other people on the road in danger. Be responsible this Fourth of July and don’t lose your independence by losing your license or your freedom by going to jail.”

The Fourth of July “It’s Not a Game” campaign is made possible by federal traffic safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

URBANA — To help save homeowners money on rising utility bills, State Senator Scott Bennett is teaming up with the Citizens Utility Board for two utility bill clinics in Urbana and Danville.

“Utility bills are on the rise, which is hurting our working families,” said Bennett (D-Champaign). “With so many people struggling, these clinics will give individuals the opportunity to learn how to reduce their utility bills.”

The clinics will be held on Wednesday, July 27 at the Urbana Free Library in the Auditorium, located at 210 W. Green St. in Urbana and Thursday, July 28 at the Danville Public Library in the Community Room, located at 319 N. Vermilion St. in Danville. Both clinics will be held from 4 to 6 p.m.

Read more ...

CHAMPAIGN – State Senator Scott Bennett (D-Champaign) released the following statement in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling to overturn the precedent of self-determination for generations of women:

“I am absolutely appalled at the Supreme Court’s ruling to block a woman’s right to choose to make their own choices when it comes to their reproductive health. This is a complete step in the wrong direction and it’s alarming that our progress is being crippled by this decision.

“Reproductive rights and bodily autonomy are the most basic and fundamental human rights. Fortunately, Illinois won’t suffer the same fate as other states, but I hope that our neighbors will take note of the actions the legislature has taken in recent years to protect the health and wellbeing of women across the country.”

CHAMPAIGN — To encourage young people to continue learning this summer, State Senator Scott Bennett is reminding parents to sign up their children for his Summer Book Club for students who live in Champaign and Vermilion Counties.

“Even though school’s out, it’s critical for students to keep their minds active,” said Bennett (D-Champaign). “It is my hope that kids of all ages will take advantage of this opportunity to stay sharp, creative and have fun during the summer months.”

The Summer Book Club requires students to read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Bennett’s office by Aug. 12. Everyone who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate from Senator Bennett. 

Read more ...