Welcome to the Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus

Collins welcomes Amrize to Chicago

CHICAGO – State Senator Lakesia Collins joined Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and Amrize leadership to celebrate the company’s new Chicago headquarters.

“Locating Amrize’s operational headquarters in Chicago is a strong vote of confidence in Illinois’ business climate,” said Collins (D-Chicago). “This investment will create good-paying jobs, strengthen our local economy, and reinforce our position as a hub for innovation.”

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Turner applauds $103 million ADM investment in Decatur

DECATUR — State Senator Doris Turner fought for increased investment in ADM’s Decatur facility, bringing jobs and economic development to the community.

“ADM’s investment in Decatur is a powerful vote of confidence in our workforce and our community,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This modernization will create new jobs and ensure Central Illinois remains a global leader in agriculture and food processing.”

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Aquino law strengthens Illinois’ health care system

SPRINGFIELD – A new law led by State Senator Omar Aquino aims to strengthen Illinois’ health care system by increasing government efficiency and transparency while maximizing state dollars to fund essential services vulnerable communities depend on.

“Impending federal cuts to Medicaid are a threat to the stability of our health care system, risking access to care for thousands of Illinoisans,” said Aquino (D-Chicago). “Safeguarding local hospitals and community-based services is needed to ensure our most vulnerable communities are not left behind.”

Senate Bill 3365 creates the Distressed Hospital Loan Program, which will provide interest-free cash flow loans to public and nonprofit hospitals in financial distress. The goal is to prevent hospital closures and maintain services while also instituting guardrails that will make sure distressed and safety net hospitals are on a path to financial sustainability.

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Lightford passes sweeping hemp, cannabis legislation

SPRINGFIELD – After years of advocacy, Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford led a wide-ranging law that brings new rules to Illinois' hemp market and delivers long-overdue improvements to the state's cannabis laws for patients, small businesses and social equity licensees.

“I have fought for years to bring order and fairness to these markets, and working with our House colleagues, we finally got it done,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “This is about protecting people, keeping our promises, and keeping Illinois at the forefront nationally.”

Senate Bill 3222 establishes mandatory licensing and uniform standards for CBD manufacturers while creating a responsible transition path for hemp businesses entering the licensed cannabis market, with at least 45 infuser licenses reserved for social equity applicants.

Read more: Lightford passes sweeping hemp, cannabis legislation