By State Senator Mike Halpin

As we move into March, our work in Springfield continues to focus on investments that strengthen opportunity across Western Illinois — starting with both higher education and our K-12 classrooms.

Recently, I spoke in support of stronger, sustained funding for Illinois’ public universities because investing in higher education is an investment in the future of our entire state. As Chair of the Senate Education Appropriations Committee and former Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, I have firsthand knowledge of the needs facing our institutions. For too long, Illinois underinvested in our universities, placing strain on affordability, recruitment, and long-term stability.

We have made important progress — including increased funding for veteran and National Guard grants — but we must continue building a more equitable, adequate higher-education funding formula. Western Illinois University and institutions across our region are economic anchors. When we invest in them, we invest in jobs, workforce development, innovation, and the next generation of leaders. We must also remain competitive so Illinois students choose to stay here rather than pursue opportunities in neighboring states.

At the same time, we must address the teacher shortage affecting schools across Illinois. This month, my legislation to help reduce the shortage advanced in committee. Senate Bill 2953 would extend a provision allowing retired teachers to work up to 120 days or 600 paid hours as substitute teachers without impacting their retirement status.

Illinois schools need more teachers and more substitute teachers. According to the Illinois State Board of Education, 87% of schools report a teacher shortage problem, and 91% are struggling to fill substitute openings. If we are going to solve this challenge, we need creative, practical solutions. Allowing experienced retired educators to step back into classrooms provides immediate support to students and school districts — without creating new barriers. Substitute teachers are an essential part of every school in every district, and we need to ensure the state is not standing in their way.

March is also a month when I consistently highlight the importance of agriculture and conservation. The first week of March marks Soil Health Week — a reminder that healthy soil underpins our food systems, water quality, and long-term economic resilience. Conservation is not just an environmental priority; it is an economic one.

National Agriculture Day on March 24 provides another opportunity to recognize the farmers, farm families, agribusinesses, and innovators who sustain Western Illinois and our state’s economy. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of our region, and I will continue advocating for policies that support family farms, encourage innovation, and strengthen rural communities.

February offered meaningful moments of reflection and community engagement. We recognized Black History Month and Career and Technical Education Month, highlighting the importance of equity and workforce preparation. American Heart Month and cancer prevention outreach reminded us that early action and awareness save lives. I was also grateful to uplift Senior Independence Month and thank the caregivers and centers that support our elders.

As we move through March, there are several important deadlines and opportunities I encourage residents to keep in mind:

• Illinois Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Credit: Families may qualify for up to $650 back this year. Visit mytax.illinois.gov to check eligibility and file.

• Illinois Retail Scholarship Challenge: High school seniors can compete for scholarships up to $60,000. Applications are due March 30 at irma.org.

• Illinois Arts Council General Operating Support Grants: Applications are due March 18 at 11:59 p.m.

• Prescription Drug Take Back Events: Safely dispose of unused medications at the Macomb Police Department lobby on March 11 and April 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

March represents renewal — in our fields, in our schools, and in our shared commitment to one another. As always, my offices in Rock Island and Galesburg are here to assist you with state services, applications, or concerns.

Together, we can continue building opportunity, stewardship, and stability across Western Illinois.