Ventura to expand clean energy financing, tackle state’s role in deforestation
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SPRINGFIELD – Continuing her work as an environmental advocate, State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a few new measures to support green infrastructure loans for municipalities and counties, as well as limit the state’s role in deforestation.
"Meeting our state's clean energy goals and tackling the climate crisis requires real investment in our communities. That’s why expanding low-cost financial options for local governments is critical to accelerating the transition to clean energy,” said Ventura (D-Joliet).
Under one measure proposed by Ventura, the Illinois Finance Authority would be allowed to reallocate funds from inactive programs to assist in the development and implementation of clean energy initiatives. With this change, $36 million would become available to support the Illinois Climate Bank— which provides financing to help communities transition to clean energy — ultimately improving climate resiliency and promoting equitable growth across Illinois.
Read more: Ventura to expand clean energy financing, tackle state’s role in deforestation
Fine, Turner outline measures to prioritize new mothers
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SPRINGFIELD – State Senators Laura Fine and Doris Turner held a press conference Tuesday to introduce two measures that would support new mothers when it comes to feeding their babies.
“Working mothers are constantly juggling to find balance to provide for their children not only financially, but also emotionally and nutritionally,” said Fine (D-Glenview). “This measure will support working mothers by providing them time to breastfeed their baby during the work day without having to risk their economic interests.”
Fine’s measure, Senate Bill 212, would require employers to provide 30 minutes of paid break time to nursing mothers so they may express or "pump" breast milk for their child. Under current law, employers are required to provide a reasonable amount of time to nursing mothers to pump breast milk during the day. However, there’s no requirement that it be paid time and reasonable is not defined.
Read more: Fine, Turner outline measures to prioritize new mothers
Morrison recognized by Illinois Association of Park Districts
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CHICAGO — State Senator Julie Morrison received the Illinois Outstanding Legislator of the Year Award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts at their annual conference this month.
“Parks are for everyone — creating recreational opportunities for children and adults alike,” said Morrison (D-Lake Forest). “The IAPD is instrumental in advocating for recreation opportunities and natural resources within our state, and I look forward to future collaboration to make more accessible open spaces a reality.”
Morrison was recognized for her support of legislation promoting park districts, forest preserves, and recreation and conservation agencies across Illinois. She has been a longtime advocate for Illinois parks and continues to support park districts throughout the state through initiatives like the Open Space Land Acquisition and Development grant program.
Read more: Morrison recognized by Illinois Association of Park Districts
Ventura to tackle high water prices, reclaim water rights
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SPRINGFIELD – Following the water rate hikes that affected Bolingbrook and the surrounding area, State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a measure that would allow municipalities to buy back their private water lines through a ballot referendum. The measure is being supported in the house by Representative Dagmara Avelar.
“Water is essential to all life — I believe water should never be privatized for this reason. We cannot allow profits to be put over people,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “I will continue to work with my colleagues to protect access to clean, affordable drinking water, as well as advocate to reform water policies that have continually hurt consumers.”
SB 1513 follows recent water rate hikes in Bolingbrook and surrounding areas in July 2024, which sparked public outrage with residents citing already high water bills and rising living expenses. Under the proposed legislation, a municipality would be able to buy back their water rights from private water utility companies using eminent domain, led by a vote via referendum in any regular election.
Read more: Ventura to tackle high water prices, reclaim water rights
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