Senate Democrats highlight over $17 million awarded to pre-apprenticeship programs across the state

CHICAGO — Thanks to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus more than $17 million in funding is being sent to 39 program recipients to expand the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program. The program, which serves up to nearly 2,000 community members statewide, creates a qualified talent pipeline of diverse candidates in the construction and building trades.

“The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program is essential to expanding opportunities for individuals in the construction trades,” said Senator Christopher Belt (D – East St. Louis). “I’m thrilled to see the continued success of this program and its critical impact on Illinoisans, particularly those from communities historically underrepresented in the trades.”  

The Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program launched in 2021 with the goal of increasing diversity and access to apprenticeship programs. Comprehensive pre-apprenticeship programs help participants gain admission to apprenticeship programs, which provide a greater opportunity to obtain employment in the construction trades and secure a lifelong career.

Read more: Senate Democrats highlight over $17 million awarded to pre-apprenticeship programs across the state

Ventura champions measures requiring car dealers to provide buyers with vehicle history report

SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a new measure that would require car dealers to provide a vehicle history report to buyers with the purchase of any used car.

“Buyers deserve to know exactly what they’re getting when they make a purchase, especially for an investment as important as buying a vehicle,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “This legislation will ensure accountability and transparency in vehicle transactions, ensuring customers don’t end up surprised by serious defects or issues after they’ve already paid a significant amount of money for a new car.” 

Read more: Ventura champions measures requiring car dealers to provide buyers with vehicle history report

Preston outlines measure to overhaul state’s tax sale system, stop predatory speculation

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Willie Preston held a press conference Tuesday to outline his Property Justice and Community Recovery Act – long-term structural reform to stop wealth extraction from disinvested communities, which will in turn stabilize neighborhoods.

“For too long, our tax sale system has enabled predatory investors to exploit struggling homeowners and extract wealth from our most vulnerable communities,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “This legislation would flip that broken system on its head. We're working to end risk-free speculation, forgiving crushing tax debt when it's unjust, and putting properties back into the hands of residents, nonprofits and local developers who will actually invest in our neighborhoods."

Read more: Preston outlines measure to overhaul state’s tax sale system, stop predatory speculation

Senate Democrats highlight progress as interstate shootings decrease four years in a row

SPRINGFIELD — Following efforts by members of the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus to prioritize public safety, the Illinois State Police announced Illinois has had a decrease in interstate shootings for four straight years. Interstate shootings statewide decreased by 31% in 2025 compared to 2024, with no fatal shootings in 2025. This is the first time in close to a decade with zero interstate shooting fatalities.

“State officials and law enforcement are working around the clock to improve public safety across Illinois,” said State Senator Laura Murphy (D-Des Plaines). “I am happy to have contributed legislation that assists in police operations on the highway, and will continue to prioritize evidence-based solutions that gives law enforcement additional tools and keeps roads safer for residents.”

Read more: Senate Democrats highlight progress as interstate shootings decrease four years in a row