SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner, alongside State Representative Mike Coffey, Springfield Mayor Misty Buscher and Sangamon County Board Chair Andy Van Meter unveiled an economic development plan for downtown Springfield Tuesday.

“Four units of government are working together in a bipartisan manner to provide economic tools that will finance and fund the development of a new hotel and the expansion of the Bank of Springfield Center,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We all share the same vision – a thriving downtown that strengthens our capital city while supporting jobs, tourism and economic growth.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner celebrated the 56th annual Illinois Agriculture Legislative Day, highlighting the importance of supporting farmers and the state’s agricultural industry.

“Illinois' agriculture industry is one of the driving forces for our state and plays a role in almost everything we do,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “It drives jobs, exports and innovation. Agriculture is an essential and legacy industry to Illinois that powers our state’s economy.”

SPRINGFIELD – In an effort to revitalize downtown Springfield, State Senator Doris Turner is working on a measure to bring more economic development and housing to the area.

“The issue I hear most from Springfield residents is ‘fix downtown,’” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We all want downtown to thrive – local leaders, residents, businesses and organizations. That’s why we have to come together and work with those who want the best for the Capital City to revitalize downtown.”

Established in 2003, the Mid-Illinois Medical District is a one-square mile designation in the heart of Springfield just to the north of downtown. The district was created to attract and retain academic centers, viable health care facilities, medical research facilities, emerging high technology enterprises and other facilities.

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner is sponsoring a measure to ensure consumers are aware of any recall on their medications.

“No one should have to read on the internet that their prescription has been recalled,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “Hearing from several constituents about this issue made it clear that we need to put a process in place so consumers are directly made aware of any recalls that may affect them.”

SPRINGFIELD – School policies protecting access to service animals for students with disabilities could be strengthened under a proposal led by State Senator Doris Turner that aims to support all students, no matter their needs.

“As we continue to equip our students with resources and support in the classroom, we need to make sure they don’t face setbacks because of a lack of understanding or awareness of the law,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “We have a responsibility to make sure all students feel welcome at school.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner announced an investment of $2 million in community organizations dedicated to combatting homelessness in Central Illinois. These grant investments are part of the state’s interagency Home Illinois Plan, an initiative intended to drive state funding and policy toward preventing and eventually reaching functional zero homelessness  – a goal where the state prevents homelessness whenever possible and ensures that if homelessness does occur, it is brief, rare and singular.

"With this funding, we are fulfilling our responsibility to help our neighbors stay housed and support our communities as they recover from the far-reaching effects of housing instability," said Turner (D-Springfield). "Every family in Illinois deserves a safe, secure place to call home, and this investment is essential to helping more families find stability, hope and a path forward."

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner (D-Springfield) released the following statement in response to a jury finding Sean Grayson guilty in the murder of Sonya Massey:

“While nothing will bring Sonya back, justice has been served. Today's verdict shows that no one is above the law.

“I stand with the Massey family and my community as we continue to mourn the unjust loss of Sonya. Since Sonya’s murder, I’ve been committed to – and will continue to – put in the work to make necessary changes to ensure our community has trust in those who have taken the oath to protect and serve.”

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Doris Turner presented a resolution to recognize and honor the contributions of Eva Carroll Monroe.

“Eva Carroll Monroe was a trailblazer in child welfare, opening her door for Black children,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “As a lifelong Springfield resident, it’s important to bring to light the important pioneers of our history who made a difference in Black communities.”

Senate Resolution 128 formally recognizes and honors the contributions of Eva Carroll Monroe, the founder of the Lincoln Colored Home of Springfield, the first Black orphanage in the state and second in the country. The resolution declares Aug. 4, 2026 as Eva Carroll Monroe Day in Illinois to honor her legacy.

Turner’s measure highlights Monroe’s dedication to the welfare of Black children, particularly during the Jim Crow Era, and her tireless work in creating a safe space for orphaned Black children who were excluded from other orphanages due to racial discrimination.

Senate Resolution 128 was adopted by the Senate on Wednesday.