PEORIA – Following financial challenges in recent years, State Senator Dave Koehler announced that 18 school districts across the area will receive nearly $8 million in additional funding to make needed improvements to classrooms and schools.

“Without proper investment in schools, from poor wages for teachers, a lack of modern technology or textbooks, and access to basic supplies like notebooks and pens, students aren’t able to learn to the best of their ability,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Investing properly in our schools is necessary to set all Illinoisans up for success in their future, and I am proud that the evidence-based funding model has continued to take steps to more equitable outcomes in education.”

The funding comes from the 2017 Illinois Senate Democrat-backed evidence-based funding formula — an overhaul of the way the state funds K-12 education. The law made school funding more equitable by calculating the needs of individual school districts and basing its state revenue on those needs. The formula takes into account a district’s total enrollment, poverty rate and number of special education or English language learners, among other factors.

Local schools set to receive funding through the formula include:

SPRINGFIELD – Illinoisans will soon have more options when it comes to recycling batteries under a new law led by State Senator Dave Koehler.

“As the world relies more on technology, we need to take proactive steps to ensure we are responsibly disposing the harmful chemicals contained in batteries,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This law ensures Illinois stays one step ahead when it comes to technology and reducing waste.”

Businesses that sell or distribute batteries will be required to develop a recycling stewardship program under the new law. Sellers and distributors would need to have a small- to medium-sized battery recycling program in place by 2026. Medium-sized batteries include batteries made for electric bikes and scooters. By 2029, businesses must include appropriate labeling for all batteries to ensure proper collection and recycling.

SPRINGFIELD – A majority of food on grocery store shelves is purchased out of state, which has led State Senator Dave Koehler to pass a law to make Illinois food more readily available on local store shelves.

“Our farmers play a significant role in our economy, and we should make every effort to have their produce in stores across our communities,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “This law supports our family farmers and gives residents access to fresh local produce.”

Koehler’s law directs the Illinois Department of Agriculture to amplify local food processing, collection and distribution within the state through grants. Eligible applicants include farms, co-ops, process facilities, food businesses and hubs with fewer than 50 employees, as well as Illinois nonprofit organizations and local governments.

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois residents with hereditary bleeding disorders will soon have improved access to their medication thanks to a new law from State Senator Dave Koehler that cuts red-tape practices used by insurance companies.

“Prior authorization processes are unnecessary checks that, in some instances, can cost a patient their life,” said Koehler (D-Peoria). “Lifesaving medication needs to be administered to those who need it without delays from insurance companies.”

The new law prohibits prior authorization for FDA-approved medication used for the treatment of hereditary bleeding disorders for up to six months. Prior authorization is a form of approval by insurance companies utilized before agreeing to cover medications and procedures. These checks can be for age, medical necessity, the availability of a medical alternative or drug interactions.