Faraci announces free prep classes for UIUC students studying for professional and licensing exams

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Paul Faraci is announcing a new state program that will help all Illinois college students prepare for graduate school and in-demand careers.

“It is unfortunate to see gifted students’ dreams and career choices limited simply because they can’t afford the classes that would prepare them for graduate school entrance exams or for professional license exams,” said Faraci (D-Champaign). “I am pleased to see Illinois making this $10 million investment to help our best and brightest succeed regardless of their ability to pay for graduate and professional prep classes.”

The Prepare for Illinois' Future Program is the result of a commitment by the State of Illinois, Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and leading global education company Kaplan to provide free test preparation courses to students enrolled in Illinois’ public universities as well as five community colleges. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has already onboarded the program.

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Cunningham receives award for stalwart support of Illinois labor

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Bill Cunningham has received the Reuben Soderstrom Award for being a labor champion.

“Unions represent an essential pillar for protecting Illinois workers and our communities as a whole,” said Cunningham, a Democrat who represents portions of Chicago and the Southwest Suburbs. “Standing in solidarity with labor is something one should do regardless of recognition, but I am happy to accept the award and encourage my colleagues to keep up the good fight.”

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Stadelman measure to protect consumers against speculative ticket sales

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Steve Stadelman is taking action to protect consumers and promote transparency in the ticket sales industry.

“There are many people who have been misled by the terms and conditions of buying a ticket online, often leading to extra fees,” said Stadelman (D-Rockford). “All consumers deserve to know up front the conditions and final price of their tickets. This measure will give consumers peace of mind before making a final purchasing decision.”

Speculative ticket listing refers to when sellers list tickets for events that they do not possess in the hope of acquiring them later at a lower price. This often leads to inflated ticket prices and leaves customers vulnerable to price gouging.

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Villivalam holds subject matter hearing to address public transit challenges

CHICAGO — Senate Transportation Committee Chair Ram Villivalam held a subject matter hearing Tuesday to hear from advocates and stakeholders about two pieces of legislation that would make changes to governance and address issues riders face.

“Given persistent delays and service gaps that riders face, it is important that we prioritize improvements to our public transit system,” said Villivalam (D-Chicago). “Today, we had the opportunity to hear from advocates and stakeholders about measures that would provide reliable, affordable, safe and coordinated transit to our region.”

Read more: Villivalam holds subject matter hearing to address public transit challenges