SPRINGFIELD — Recognizing the heightened risk of cancer, trauma-related mental health conditions and other illnesses faced by firefighters, Illinois will begin to track and record firefighters’ causes of death under a new law led by State Senator Cristina Castro.

“This is about transparency for the families of fallen firefighters, and it’s about helping the state understand what we can do better to protect the first responders who put their lives on the line every day,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “Whether a tragedy happens from injuries in the line of duty or from the lasting effects of firefighting over time, this data will shed light on where current gaps exist so we can intervene.”

State Senator Cristina Castro is urging community organizations, educational institutions and industry groups to apply for grants from the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program to enhance workforce training and economic growth in Illinois communities.

“I’m thrilled to see the continued success of the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “The funding provided through this program is critical to increasing career opportunities for Illinoisans and building up our state’s world-class workforce.”

This latest round of funding provides $25 million to support pre-apprenticeship programs that aim to increase diversity and create pathways for underrepresented groups in the construction industry, including women, veterans and people of color. The program offers comprehensive, tuition-free training and certifications, along with supportive services to help individuals gain entry to apprenticeships and ultimately secure stable, well-paying careers.

State Senator Cristina Castro secured $200,000 to sustain and enhance local arts programming across the Northwest Suburbs.

“Side Street Studio Arts is reimagining how inclusivity and art can come together to enhance our downtown area,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “By investing in creative programming, enhanced venues and arts organizations, we’re opening the doors to more exhibits and performances that will sustain Elgin’s economic and cultural strengths now and into the future.”

The funding was awarded through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Tourism Attractions Grant Program. Created to boost the state’s tourism economy, the program awarded over $1.6 million to 11 grantees in the latest round of funding for projects that will enhance local attractions, increase visitor rates and generate economic growth in communities across Illinois.

Thanks to the Illinois Secretary of State’s public library grants, two local libraries are set to receive over $317,000 for upgrades, State Senator Cristina Castro announced Wednesday.

“This funding is more than just a line item – it’s an investment in making sure valuable resources and services are available to everyone in our communities,” said Castro (D-Elgin). “With additional support, Elgin and Streamwood families will benefit from the diverse range of books, online collections, multilingual materials and summer programming at their local libraries for years to come.”

Awarded annually, the Public Library Per Capita and Equalization Aid Grants support public libraries across Illinois in providing services to nearly 12 million patrons statewide. Grant funding can be used to support collection development, including books and materials, online resources and internet access, personnel, public programming and capital upgrades.